Ampleforth College

Music Awards & Scholarships

Candidates attend auditions during January.

Music Scholarships at Ampleforth are honorary and do not carry with them a remission of fees. However the award of a music scholarship will support a bursary application.

It is anticipated that candidates for awards will have achieved a minimum standard of Grade VI at 13 and Grade VIII at 16 on their principal instrument, but at both levels it is musical potential we seek rather than present ability. Reports will normally be required from the candidate's present Headteacher and other competent musical authority.

A high standard of choral music is a distinctive feature of musical life at Ampleforth. All Music Scholars with suitable voices are expected to complement their instrumental studies with membership of the Schola Cantorum and other choirs as advised by the Director of Music. Successful candidates will be allowed to specialise in music throughout their school career as appropriate. The Director of Music is always happy to see parents of prospective candidates in advance of the examinations to discuss and assess the current level of achievement.

THE EXAMINATION

The examination is principally by audition and interview, and consists of the following:

• The performance of two contrasted pieces on the first instrument.
• The performance of one piece on the second instrument.
• The performance of one piece for voice (optional).
• Scales and arpeggios.
• Sight-reading.
• Ear tests.
• Viva voce questions on general musical matters.