Music in the Senior School: The Sound of St Chris
A space where creativity, collaboration and confidence grow in equal measure. Music is an essential part of life here, enriching our community through performance, shared experiences and the joy of discovery.
Every student is encouraged to explore their musical identity, whether through singing, playing an instrument, composing, or listening with curiosity. Our approach is grounded in participation and expression — helping each young person to develop their skills, find their voice, and experience the power of music to connect and inspire.
Our Curriculum
| Year 7: Exploring Sound and Song |
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In Year 7, students take part in a wide range of activities that build musical confidence, understanding and enjoyment. Lessons are centred on practical engagement — performing, composing, and working together to share ideas. All students have access to a variety of instruments, and singing often forms an integral part of their lessons. Key topics include the elements of music, keyboard skills, song writing and notation, with a focus on reading and writing in the treble clef. |
| Year 8: Building Skills and Creativity |
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Year 8 builds on the foundation of practical musicianship, encouraging students to develop their confidence through both performance and composition. Topics include “musical sandwiches” — an introduction to Western classical structures — as well as reggae, further keyboard development and bass clef notation. Towards the end of the year, every student composes their own piece for piano using conventional Western notation, developing both technical and creative skills. |
| Year 9: Performing, Creating and Collaborating |
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By Year 9, students are ready to take ownership of their music-making. Lessons are largely practical and collaborative, with singing and instrumental work at their heart. Students form bands, explore positive self-directed projects and share their ideas through regular performances. Projects include studying “variations” in Western classical music, exploring film and TV soundtracks, popular music and the business of marketing. Students also create and perform their own cover song and accompanying music video, bringing together creativity, teamwork and performance. |
| GCSE Music: Developing Expertise |
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Our GCSE Music course offers an exciting blend of performance, composition and analysis. Pupils explore a diverse range of music — from Western classical traditions to rhythms from around the world — developing a deep understanding of how music connects cultures and generations. The course is structured around five areas of study:
Through these areas, pupils are encouraged to pursue their individual musical interests while building the skills and understanding needed to become confident, expressive musicians. |
Instrumental and Vocal Lessons
Many of our students choose to take individual or small group lessons, and they have regular opportunities to perform in concerts, assemblies and school events throughout the year.
We offer tuition on a wide range of instruments — from strings, woodwind and brass, to percussion, piano and voice. If your child isn’t sure which instrument to begin with, we’re happy to arrange a free taster lesson to help them find the one that feels right.
Once lessons begin, students usually have one lesson each week, typically 35 minutes long. For our younger learners in the Junior School, 20-minute lessons are also available as a gentle introduction to instrumental learning.
Lessons Offered
| Teacher | Instrument | 35 Minute Lesson | 20 Minute Lesson |
| Justin Thurgur | Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn & Other Brass, Piano | £27.62 | £15.78 |
| Emma Fowler | Clarinet, Saxophone, Flute | £27.62 | |
| Gemma Risden | Singing | £27.62 | £15.78 |
| Sharon Eckman | Singing | £27.62 | £15.78 |
| Melissa O'Donnell | Singing | £28.00 | £15.78 |
| Helen Lord | Piano, Violin | £27.62 | £15.78 |
| Dan Wild | Drums | £27.62 | £15.78 |
| Ian Whitehead | Drums | £27.62 | £15.78 |
| Jonny Pilcher | Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Music Tech Composition | £27.62 | £15.78 |
| Ben Smith | Guitar, Bass, Ukulele | £27.62 | £15.78 |
| Toby Turton | Cello | £27.62 | £15.78 |
| Marco Marconi | Piano | £27.62 | £15.78 |
| Rachael Moorhead | Piano | £27.62 | £15.78 |
If you are unsure as to which instrument you’d like to learn we can offer a free taster lesson to help you decide. Once you’ve chosen, you get one lesson a week. These are mostly 35 minutes long, though you can also opt for 20-minute lessons (generally intended for Junior School pupils).
If you’d like to take up an instrument, please click on the link below to complete a short form.
Ahead of completing the form, please read the Instrumental Music Tuition Terms and Conditions.
INSTRUMENTAL AND VOCAL LESSON BOOKING
