Music plays a large part in the life of many boys at Monmouth School. Over half of all pupils take individual music lessons in School; nearly 400 individual music lessons are taught here each week. Students arriving at the School for the Sixth Form are strongly encouraged to continue with their musical interests and involve themselves in the musical life of the School. It is also possible for someone who has not yet learned to play an instrument to begin learning here.

Instrumental lessons are taught by a team of internationally renowned players and for sixth formers are timetabled in study periods. They take place in the generously-resourced Glover Music School, which includes a small performance space, ICT suite and numerous class and teaching rooms, all of which are equipped with good pianos. The School houses three organs, in the Theatre, Music School and Chapel. There are five full-time and twenty-two part-time staff. The department runs a number of instrumental ensembles at a senior level; Brass Band, Symphonic Winds, Choral Society and Joint Strings (with HMSG). They all have many dedicated members and offer a strong sense of camaraderie and fun both in rehearsals and in their numerous performances in and out of School. Tours occur on a regular basis, with groups visiting Canada, France, Spain and Italy in the last five years. If you would like to be involved in one of the senior bands or orchestras, then any member of the music staff will be able to help if you ask.

Instrumental and Choral concerts are presented each term, with smaller-scale chamber concerts and workshops happening throughout the year. The School maintains a strong choral tradition; the Choral Society presents a major choral work every year (Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances in 2007) and the Chamber Choir performs regularly in and out of School. Mr. Lawson would be very pleased to hear from any boys wishing to sing in one of these choirs. Pupils regularly go on to study music in Higher Education, frequently winning choral and organ awards.

Many boys who have shown a sustained and outstanding commitment to School Music have been awarded Colours by the Headmaster. Music Awards of up to 50% of the fees are offered to suitable candidates. Detailed information can be provided by the Admissions Secretary, Mrs. Diane Jakes (01600 710433).