The Purcell School welcomes applications from all talented young musicians between the ages of 10 and 18.
We consider musical ability and promise to be more significant than grade attainment, and are looking for evidence of musical skill, desire, commitment and potential. However, students do require five or more GCSE or IGCSE passes at grade C or above, or the equivalent for overseas students, in order to enter the Sixth Form.
We do not have formal entry criteria – every student is different, and all students make progress at different stages. Above all else we are looking for evidence of some achievement, a musical spark, and lots of potential. Our happiest students are the ones who are extremely motivated intrinsically: they can’t imagine doing anything other than music, and this is clear in their playing and singing.
Consequently, applications and auditions are assessed very much on an individual basis, and exam certificates are not essential.
As a rough guide, with very few exceptions, students joining our school will be playing at approximately the following minimum standard on their first instrument. Most play a second instrument too.
Pianists
Age 9-11: grade 6-8+
Age 12-15: grade 8-Diploma+
Violinists and cellists
Age 9-11: Grade 5-7+
Age 12-15: Grade 7+
Wind, brass, harp, viola, double bass and percussion players often begin their instruments at an older age, and may be offered a place on potential if they have a less advanced playing level.
All students age 16: for Year 12 (sixth form) we are looking for students who will comfortably be ready to apply for top conservatoires and universities at the start of year 13.
Composers, jazzers and singers are advised to contact the school for more information if in doubt. We do not take singers younger than 14 unless they also play an instrument at a high level, because we are not affiliated with a cathedral, and not equipped to offer a lot of choral opportunities.
We teach advanced students of classical music and jazz, and although the musical repertoire is varied, we do not run a formal pop or rock school course. All students take iGCSE and pre-U Music, and many take Music Technology A level too.
Please note registration for our October 2019 Open Morning has now closed.
Twice a year The Purcell School opens its doors to prospective students and parents, welcoming them to meet staff and students, take in the campus and facilities, and enjoy the outstanding music-making that characterises the School.
Visitors are able to meet with the Principal, Director of Music and the Heads of the six Music Departments. They will be taken on a tour of the School, guided by current students, visit our recording studios and see the Music Technology Department in action. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions on all aspects of School life, academic and pastoral, as well as the music programme and entry auditions.
Please be aware that all places are means-tested, and that Scholarships of up to 100% are available under the government’s Music and Dance Scheme.
If you have any further questions, contact the School’s Registrar, Ms Karen Eldridge, on k.eldridge@purcell-school.org.
