Music at Queen Anne's School is very much alive and kicking! The Music Department has three full-time staff and 21 visiting music teachers who cover the full range of orchestral instruments, keyboard and guitar. Approximately two-thirds of the school learn a musical instrument and many take part in choirs and orchestras.
During the week the following groups meet:
- Chamber Choir
- Senior Choir
- Rose Choir
- Orchestra
- Chamber Orchestra
- Wind Quartet
- Flute Group
- Swing Band
- Junior Wind Band
There are regular concert opportunities throughout the year and groups perform outside school in places like Westminster Abbey, Reading Minster and Oxford. The Choir and Chamber Orchestra toured Venice in the summer of 2009. The subscription concerts series has seen the Fine Arts Brass Ensemble, the OXUS Quartet and the Bright Stars of Jazz giving concerts and workshops with students from Queen Anne's and other schools. We have strong musical links with The Oratory and Shiplake College. Students also attend concerts in London and Reading. Reading Symphony Orchestra rehearses at the school and it is possible for advanced players to join in with them. There are various scholarships available at 11, 13 and 16+ and any interested students are welcome to come for a pre-audition and meet the department. Links with the drama department are strong and a musical is normally performed every two years.
Academic Music is taught at both GCSE and A level using the IGCSE and AQA specifications. It is also possible to take A level Music Technology as we have excellent facilities for recording and sequencing.
Teaching staff
Director of Music: Mr J Padley
Assistant Director: Mr M Bushby
Mr M Richards
