High Street, Tonbridge,
Kent, TN9 1JP
Music
The school has a long-standing tradition of musical excellence, and the quality of orchestral and choral music is exceptionally high. Over half of the boys in the school learn at least one musical instrument, and there seventy music award holders at the school. Eight full-time and 38 visiting staff offer tuition in piano, organ, all the standard orchestral instruments, guitar (classical, bass and electric), saxophone, percussion, and voice. There are three orchestras, two bands, a choral society and many smaller ensembles: instrumentalists are given every opportunity and encouragement to gain experience of playing together with others and to perform in public both within and beyond the school.
Each term there are several concerts and formal or informal recitals, given by boys and staff: a weekly informal concert offers opportunities for public performance to younger players as well as the more experienced. There is also a Masterclass Series in which boys play to leading specialists in particular genres. Jazz and popular music are actively encouraged and flourish. A sound-proofed recording studio with mixing desk is available for boys who wish to use it. At any one time about 30 boys will have passed Grade VIII and more than 150 boys will perform in a solo role during an average school year. There is an annual House music competition, and most Houses hold their own musical "soirées". Details of all events are given in the termly Music Diary, and parents, friends of the school, and members of the public are always welcome to attend.
The Chapel Choir (which includes treble Chorister Scholars from two local prep schools) is of cathedral standard, and indeed most of its members are ex-Cathedral Choristers. The Choir sings at all main school services, and also sings services and concerts outside the school. Both the Chapel Choir and the Symphony Orchestra are planning tours.
Music Scholars and Exhibitioners have curricular dispensation in the first two years for dedicated practice time. All musicians can benefit from the supervised practice offered in the Music School from 8.15 a.m. on most mornings.
Associated Board Examination Results
Pupils have the opportunity to take Associated Board exams each term, and regularly achieve a high rate of success. Last year 63 pupils took exams in a wide variety of instruments. The pass rate was 100%, 74% with distinction or merit and 44% were grade 7 or higher (including 4 diplomas).
Junior Chorister Scholarships
The trebles of the Chapel Choir are drawn from Hilden Grange or Yardley Court Prep schools and local maintained primary schools in the Tonbridge area. Junior Chorister Scholarships, with a value of approximately one quarter of the Prep school fees (£2,000), are awarded by audition to boys aged between 8 and 13 who are, or intend to be, pupils at Hilden Grange or Yardley Court or at a local primary school. These scholarships, of which 16 may be held at any one time, are tenable for as long as a boy is a member of the Chapel Choir. Further details may be obtained from the Director of Music or the Admissions Secretary.