Music holds a special place at English boarding schools – and you can feel it from the very first day. While many schools traditionally focus on academic achievement or sport, at true music boarding schools, musical development is an equally integral part of daily life. Anyone who plays an instrument, or simply wants to try, will find not only ideal conditions but also genuine enthusiasm and deeply rooted traditions.
What sets these schools apart is their ability to discover hidden talents, refine existing skills, and offer a programme that leaves hardly any wish unfulfilled. Whether classical, jazz, pop, blues or crossover – at the best music boarding schools, versatility is not only accepted but actively encouraged. Practice rooms, studios and concert halls are equipped to professional standards. Many schools even have their own music technology departments, where students can work with state-of-the-art recording equipment and realise their own compositions.
Lessons are led by outstanding teachers – many of them trained at leading conservatoires or still active performers on stage. Vocal coaches, instrumental tutors, conductors and guest musicians bring fresh ideas and inspiration. Regular ensemble rehearsals, orchestras, bands and choirs are part of the timetable, complemented by public concerts, competitions, music tours and even professional recordings. Making music together fosters teamwork, self-confidence, concentration and creativity – and provides the perfect counterbalance to academics.
Many schools also offer music scholarships, both for highly talented young musicians and for motivated beginners with potential. Pupils can try out multiple instruments – and those who pursue it seriously often go on to study at leading conservatoires. For everyone else, music remains a fulfilling hobby and a source of unforgettable experiences. Here are our Top 5 boarding schools with outstanding music programmes:
Seen in the Music School
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Wells Cathedral School
Founded in 909, Wells Cathedral School is one of the oldest schools in Europe and world-renowned for both its academic standards and its extensive programme of sport, leisure and the arts. Music has played a central role since the very beginning. Pupils are encouraged to explore the intersections of music, technology and other disciplines. The curriculum covers every era and genre imaginable – from Gregorian chant to contemporary styles. The school runs a Cathedral Choir School as well as a specialist music academy. Its outstanding orchestras, choirs, ensembles and bands have produced many internationally acclaimed musicians. The Cedar Hall concert venue offers world-class acoustics, giving pupils the experience of performing in a true philharmonic setting.
Music is embedded in the timetable. Teachers and coaches are graduates of the best conservatoires, many of them active musicians themselves. Renowned guest artists ensure variety and inspiration. Wells identifies talent early and nurtures those who aspire to a professional career in a dedicated specialist programme. Entry to this elite track requires an audition, but the school’s broad, high-quality music programme is open to everyone. As violinist James Ehnes once said: “At this school, students receive not only a first-class education but also the kind of individual attention that allows them to flourish as unique artists with their own personalities.”
Uppingham School
Founded in 1584 in Rutland, Uppingham is known for academic excellence, sport and creativity – especially music. Throughout its history the school has been linked to musical pioneers, and that spirit of adventure lives on today. From classical and jazz to polyphony, hip-hop and beyond – every style has its place here. Teachers are professional musicians themselves, and the school’s Director of Music is internationally respected. Pupils benefit from masterclasses and workshops with visiting artists of world renown.
The emphasis is on both individual excellence and the dynamics of group performance in orchestras and bands. Three dedicated music schools on campus offer modern studios, practice rooms and performance venues. Students perform locally and internationally – including at the Royal Albert Hall in London and St John the Divine Cathedral in New York. For pupils seeking a strong academic education alongside top-level music training, Uppingham is one of the best choices outside of specialist conservatoire schools.
Shrewsbury School
Shrewsbury is best known for its sporting tradition, but its music programme regularly produces outstanding results too. The “Salopians”, as pupils are called, enjoy a wide spectrum of musical opportunities – from history and theory to practice across multiple genres. Cross-disciplinary projects link music with art, literature and history. Every new pupil can try out a range of instruments in trial lessons, and tuition is offered across the full range of instruments and voice. Styles cover everything from classical and choral to jazz, rock and pop. Workshops, performances and competitions are voluntary but strongly encouraged, inspiring students to aim high. Musical theatre also plays a role: every two years the school stages a major production at the Ashton Theatre.
King’s School Canterbury
As a cathedral school with centuries of tradition, King’s offers a music programme at the very highest level. Its elite Crypt Choir performs in London’s Wigmore Hall and at the Vatican. The orchestra is equally renowned, complemented by jazz and rock ensembles, choirs and chamber groups. Over 600 individual lessons per week are taught by six full-time and around 44 visiting teachers, many of them active professionals. The quality of music-making at King’s is exceptional – both in style and in structure.
Haileybury
Haileybury has a long musical tradition and is often described as a true talent forge. It is particularly suited to pupils aiming for careers in choral or operatic singing or orchestral performance. Its symphony orchestra and chamber ensembles are outstanding, and the choir has won major awards such as the BBC “Songs of Praise Choir of the Year 2015.” Yet all genres thrive here: from classical and jazz to pop, rock and big band. Notable alumnae include the internationally celebrated opera singer Rosie Aldridge, who often credits her time at Haileybury as pivotal to her career.
Director of Music Simon Bland sees music as a social glue, with pupils as cultural ambassadors in the widest sense. Facilities include a full range of instruments, practice rooms, concert halls, recording studios and a music technology suite. Regular challenges, combined with strong support, encourage pupils to excel. Tours and performance trips are frequent, and biennial music and opera tours are highlights of school life. Talented pupils are encouraged to attend the Junior Departments of the Royal College, Royal Academy and Guildhall. Many also gain places in national ensembles such as the National Youth Orchestra, National Youth Concert Band and National Youth Choirs of Great Britain.
Where the magic happens - recording studio at Haileybury School
Music technology is huge here!
If you have any questions about boarding schools for music in the United Kingdom, we are happy to advise you individually – to ensure your child finds the school that fits both their personality and their musical potential.