News & Headteacher Blogs

Music at The Downs School: a busy and exciting term ahead

It has been a wonderful start to the year in the Music department, and there is already a great deal going on. Whether your child has been playing an instrument for years or has never picked one up before, there is a place for them in our music department, and we would love to see as many students as possible getting involved.

The House Music Competition is well under way and rehearsals are going very well indeed. Students have been working hard with their houses, and we are really looking forward to seeing them perform on 15 October. It is always one of the highlights of the autumn term, full of energy and a healthy amount of friendly rivalry.

There is plenty more to come. Students from Years 7 to 13 will be taking part in our Play Day on 12 November, and our newest students will take to the stage for the Year 7 Concert on 4 November at 6.30pm. Preparations are also beginning for the Winter Celebration Concert on 2 December at 6.30pm, which is a lovely way to bring the school community together before the end of term. We hope many families will be able to join us for both evenings.

Alongside these events, students can join a range of music ensembles, including guitar, woodwind, jazz and piano groups, which perform in our weekly assemblies. It is a brilliant way for students to gain confidence playing in front of others and to share their music with the whole school.

Lunchtimes are a busy time in the department too. Students are welcome to drop in to play, sing or rehearse, and our Choir meets at lunchtime as well, so do speak to Miss Brennecke if you would like to join. A Years 7 to 9 Orchestra and Chamber Group will also be starting soon, and we will share details once they are confirmed. After school, our Jazz Band is open to students who would like to take their playing further, and again Miss Brennecke is the person to contact.

For students who would like individual tuition, we offer a wide choice of peripatetic lessons through Good Vibes Music Academy and Berkshire Music Trust. Lessons are available in piano, guitar, saxophone, drums, brass, clarinet and singing, and students can book these to take place during the school week. It is a very convenient way to learn an instrument, and our visiting teachers are always happy to welcome complete beginners as well as more experienced players.

We are proud of the enthusiasm our students bring to our department.  If your child would like to get involved in any way, please encourage them to pop into the Music department or speak to Miss Brennecke.

We look forward to seeing and hearing them this term!