Music Scholarships offer boys with considerable musical potential opportunities to develop their talents and pursue their passions in our stunning Music School and beyond.
Music scholars are personally mentored as they move through the school, with a programme individually tailored to challenge and inspire them. They benefit from our Music Fellowship Programme, offering the opportunity to work with some of the UK’s finest musicians. Each of the five musical faculties (brass, keyboard, strings, vocal, woodwind) has an appointed fellow who visits the school on at least two separate occasions per year, giving recitals, directing ensembles, leading workshops, as well as performing with and inspiring boys throughout.
Successful candidates also receive free instrumental tuition on two instruments in addition to the possibility of fee remission. We expect our scholars to set high standards of dedicated practice and personal achievement. We ask that they shine not only within the Music School but act as musical ambassadors for the whole school. Music scholars lie at the heart of music at Bedford; they are the backbone of our many ensembles and set the tone for the high standard and great variety of music within the school.
Entry at 13+ (Year 9) and 16+ (Year 12)
- Experience in at least two instruments (including one orchestral) is preferred.
- Overall musicianship and potential are assessed, as well as current performing standard.
- We will also take a good voice or choral experience into consideration.
- Candidates are required to perform two contrasting pieces on their first instrument and one piece on any other instrument and/or voice.
- There will be tests on scales/arpeggios, sight-reading and aural awareness.
- There are no written tests, but candidates are welcome to bring a composition if they wish.
