Music

Music is very much a part of Somerville House with our ensembles, immersion programs and individual achievement exemplifying the excellence for which the School is known.

Our music program caters for a wide range of individual interests and skill levels and is conducted both in the classroom and in a co-curricular capacity. 

Our comprehensive co-curricular Ensemble program includes string ensembles, bands and vocal choirs as well as many woodwind, percussion and small string ensembles.

Choirs and Ensembles

Choirs

Choral singing is an integral part of musical life at the School. There are different choirs to cater for students of all vocal abilities.

Occasionally, all choirs perform as a massed choir.

• Cantrice  (auditioned, Years 10 to 12)
• Camerata (Years 10 to 12)
• Cantamus (Years 7 to 9)
• Cantabile (Years 5 and 6)
• Poco a Poco (Years 3 and 4)

Band Ensembles 

Band ensembles are open to students who learn a band instrument outside of the School as well as those involved in the School instrumental tuition program. The following groups cater for all levels of playing experience.

• Symphonic Band (auditioned, Grade 5 AMEB)
• Harker Concert Band (auditioned, Grade 2 to 4 AMEB)
• Goodwin Concert Band (Years 6 to 9)
• Year 5 Band (immersion program)
• Stage Band (by invitation)
• Chamber Winds 
• Percussion Ensemble 1
• Percussion Ensemble 2
• Speech Night Orchestra

String Ensembles

String ensembles are open to players who learn an instrument outside of the School as well as those involved in the School tuition program. The following groups cater for all levels of playing experience.

• Somerville Strings (Grade 8 AMEB)
• Amadeus Strings (Grades 5 to 8 AMEB)
• Stradivari Strings (Preliminary to Grade 4 AMEB)
• Junior Strings
• Pizzicato Strings
• Year 5 Strings (immersion program)
• Year 5 Guitar (immersion program)
• Year 3 Strings (immersion program)
• Quartets & Consorts
• Guitar Ensemble

Private Music Tuition

Individual instruction is available for all orchestral instruments as well as piano, classical organ, guitar, singing and theory of music. In some cases, the School is able to provide an instrument for the early months of tuition and, in the case of larger instruments such as bassoon, trombone, French horn, euphonium, tuba, cello and double bass, for longer periods. Students learning an instrument or voice at Somerville House are encouraged to prepare for internal or accredited music examination (AMEB or Trinity College London)