Something To
Be Shared

At West Buckland we believe that music-making should be a social activity, and that whilst individual practice is vital, there is also a lot of progress to be made through making music with others. It is for this reason that pupils are strongly encouraged to participate in our comprehensive ensemble programme.

We also arrange world-class visiting musicians and ensembles to perform at the school, providing wonderful musical enrichment opportunities for our students and often open to the wider community.  Some of our young musicians are able to benefit from Masterclass workshops before the evening performance.

Music Lessons

The Vision for Music at West Buckland School

Mr N. Smith, Director of Music, studied at the Royal Scottish Conservatoire and holds both a degree in Music Performance and is a Post Graduate in Advanced Music Performance.  He has been a professional flute player in different Scottish orchestras, conducted numerous orchestras and choirs, including the Surrey Philharmonic Orchestra for six years.  A teacher for 33 years, Director of Music for 20 years, Mr Smith aims to instil the value of a love for music in those who want to learn.  He is passionate about teaching and loves inspiring others to make music and push themselves to go as far as possible with their talent.   Together with Mr Burstow and the team of instrumental teachers, the Music Department is well equipped to provide the very best opportunities to aspiring young musicians enabling them, in turn, to share their passion for music with others.

The rich and diverse range of opportunities for young musicians at West Buckland School reflects the passion and ethos of Mr Smith. The wider community are invited to enjoy evenings of music, with many visiting professional musicians coming to West Buckland School throughout the year, including soloists, ensembles and orchestras.

Upcoming events are soon to be listed on this page.  Please check back in February to see the diary of events.

Instrumental Lessons

Individual music lessons are taught by a team of over twenty visiting music teachers, many of whom are practising professional players. Lessons are available on all orchestral instruments as well as piano, organ, voice, percussion and guitar. Lessons last 30 minutes and are scheduled throughout the school day.  Scheduling is created so that no single academic lesson is impacted each week, but the instrument lessons are rotated through different times of the school day.

Lessons are an additional cost, invoiced at the start of each term.  For prices and availability of a specific instrument, please enquire.

North Devon
Sinfonia

(Approximately 50 to 70 members) This is a local full-scale symphony orchestra which performs four concerts a year and specialises in Romantic and 20th Century repertoire.

String players who are Grade 7 and above and wind and brass players who are Grade 8 and above may join, subject to audition. This ensemble ensures that our more talented players are stretched to their full ability and given the opportunity to perform in a full-scale symphony orchestra on a regular basis.

Music Scholarships

At West Buckland School, we offer Music Scholarships for students entering Years 7, 9, and 12. Open to both current and new students, these scholarships provide a unique opportunity to develop your musical abilities while becoming part of a community that celebrates and nurtures talent.

Join a vibrant environment where your passion for music will flourish, supported by expert guidance and surrounded by like-minded peers.

Discover more about our Music Scholarships and how to apply by clicking below:

Music Scholarship