‘Music for all’ is the guiding principle of the Music Department at St George’s.
Music is embedded in the core curriculum and extends far beyond the classroom, enriching academic study, co-curricular life and wellbeing. Excellence in performance is a defining feature of music at St George’s, and every pupil is encouraged to discover and develop their musical potential.
Choral Tradition and the Chapel Choir
St George’s is particularly renowned for its choral tradition. Our Chapel Choir is of an exceptionally high standard, with membership awarded by audition. Recognisable by their distinctive red cloaks, the choir has sung for members of the Royal Family. They have toured internationally to Salzburg and Vienna and regularly perform at prestigious concerts, weddings and services, including events for the Law Society in London, Eton College, Ascot Racecourse and the Windsor Horse Show. The Chapel Choir has broadcast on BBC Radio 3, recorded three CDs and sings Evensong at various London venues each year.
For many pupils, these experiences open doors to further musical opportunity, including choral scholarships and continued study beyond school. The habits formed here provide a strong foundation for those pursuing music at the highest level.
Music Technology and Recording Suite
St George’s recently opened its new Music Technology Room and Recording Studio, enhancing our already extensive music facilities and technology provision. Designed to support both curriculum and co-curricular learning, the suite provides pupils with access to cutting-edge recording and computer technology, enabling them to explore composition, production and sound engineering. This innovative space supports pupils in developing their creative potential and equips those interested in studio-based careers with valuable, real-world skills and experience.
Performance and Concert Opportunities
Performance opportunities run throughout the year, with termly Junior and Whole School Concerts, seasonal services and celebrations, and the Christmas Carol Service at Windsor Church. In the Spring Term, pupils compete in the House Music Competition, judged by an external adjudicator. The Summer Term features the Jazz and Dance Show with the Jazz Group and Natalie Vinson dancers, and concludes with Music for a Summer Evening, celebrating Upper Sixth pupils, the Jazz Group and the Chapel Choir with the school community, Governors and parents.
Alongside these formal events, our termly Open Mic Nights provide a more informal but equally valuable platform. These evenings encourage pupils to share original compositions, contemporary repertoire and collaborative performances in a supportive atmosphere.
Instrumental and Vocal Tuition
Instrumental and vocal tuition is a key part of music at St George’s, with over half of pupils taking individual lessons with specialist visiting teachers across a wide range of instruments, including singing, piano, guitar, percussion, violin, clarinet, trumpet and saxophone. Pupils regularly sit ABRSM exams, with many progressing to Diploma level, while Musical Theatre students take Thames Valley University exams and percussionists take Trinity College examinations.