SCHOLARSHIP PRE-AUDITIONS

The Director of Music is happy to hear potential Music scholars play at any point. The informal pre-audition is designed to be low-key, and is a chance for you to get to know us as much as for us to get to know you. A good time for a first pre-audition might be in Year 7 or even at the end of Year 6, with a follow-up in the Christmas Term of Year 8.

We will give some informal feedback, identifying both things that went well and areas for improvement as preparations for the ‘real thing’ get underway. It’s also a good chance for you to ask questions and to find out more about Music scholarships and Music at Canford.

Whilst the emphasis at the pre-audition is on informality, and on the pupil showing music at which they are currently working, in order for it to be a useful occasion, the following elements should normally be presented:

Music Making Beyond Canford

We are glad to support our Music scholars in finding external opportunities to perform and to learn. Samuel Hopkins is now in his fourth year as a member of the National Youth Orchestra, whilst a number of scholars have, over the years, been members of the highly regarded Wessex Youth orchestra. Summer courses, such as ‘Music Makers’ or the Eton Choral courses are ones on which we encourage our musicians to go.

The Friends Of Canford Music

Parents are as important to the musical life of the school as the pupils, and parents of scholars are very much a part of the department. We hope to see you regularly at performances, and the establishing, five years ago, of the ‘Friends of Canford Music’ has helped to develop a really warm welcome – their feedback has certainly improved the quality of the interval wine!

A number of Music scholar parents serve on the committee, and help out from time to time with the organisation of concerts and events. Most importantly, though, we know that the pupils here really value their parents coming to hear them play (whatever they may, occasionally, say to the contrary), and your support is a vital part of our music-making.

• One piece on each instrument (and one song, if appropriate)

• A selection of scales on the main instrument

In addition, there will be some aural tests and sight-reading of an appropriate level.

It is important to note that no indication can or will be given at a preliminary audition as to the likely outcome of the Music scholarship auditions themselves.

If you would like to book a pre-audition please contact Sarah Holloway (Music Administrator) on 01202 847486 or by email: slh@canford.com