We believe that music is for all, whether that’s playing, singing or listening to it. It not only nourishes the soul; musical training also helps develop language, reasoning – and maths. It improves hand-eye co-ordination and listening skills. It fires up the memory. It requires persistence; it gives a great sense of achievement. Our 27 instrumental teachers are ready to get your child started or take them to their next level.
No matter what your child’s musical experience, we’ll give them opportunities to perform to an audience in our school theatre. We’ve got three choirs, a school orchestra, ensembles for brass, guitar, strings and woodwind, jazz groups and more. There are inter-house competitions, musical productions and our ‘Music for a Summer’s Evening’ grand performance at the end of each year. Plus, every two years, students can join a music tour overseas – in 2024, we’re going to Tuscany!
Our music department features a digital recording studio and editing suite equipped with Macs and industry-standard instruments and software. Leighton Park is a certified Steinberg Training Centre. This wealth of equipment and resources has a huge and positive impact in lessons, opening up new and more effective ways of teaching anything from Steve Reich and minimalism to 12-bar blues. And if you’re looking at our Sixth Form, we’ve even got a specialist qualification in music technology.
In addition to our main bursary fund, Leighton Park is able to make Austin Bursary Awards for Sixth Form students with particular academic ability and/or musical talent. These awards are means-tested and usually cover between 80-100% of the day fee for the two years of the Sixth Form.
Leighton Park has strength across the creative and performing arts, creating an inspiring, inclusive and vibrant learning community, with students bringing their remarkable talents to bear in performances and productions throughout the year. Watch our short video for a taste of what’s on offer.
Opened in January 2019, our MMC building boasts industry-standard tech and facilities – including a Yamaha Live Lounge Recording Studio.
Talented actor, Max (Year 8) has been celebrated by the Independent Schools Association. (ISA) for his original Shakespearean monologue in their 2024 KS3 competition. The competition invites students to immerse … Read More +
“I love House Music because it’s the wildest night of the year – an opportunity for the whole school to get together and celebrate our talent. It’s a great experience … Read More +
LooP Dance Company at Leighton Park were lucky enough to be selected to dance at the annual ‘Lift Off’ Dance Festival 2024 at South Hill Park on Sunday 17th March. … Read More +
1. Enhances Cognitive Development
Music education is not just about learning notes and melodies; it significantly contributes to cognitive development in students. Engaging in music helps improve memory, attention, and reasoning skills, which are essential for academic success.
2. Boosts Creativity and Innovation
Music encourages creative thinking and innovation. It allows students to express themselves artistically, fostering a sense of originality and inventiveness that can spill over into other academic and life pursuits.
3. Improves Emotional Intelligence
Participating in music activities in school helps students develop greater emotional intelligence. They learn empathy and understanding through musical expression, which can lead to more effective communication and interpersonal skills.
4. Strengthens Cultural Awareness and Diversity
Music education introduces students to a variety of cultural traditions and perspectives, promoting an appreciation for diversity and fostering a more inclusive school environment.
5. Enhances Language and Reading Skills
Music education strongly correlates with improved language and reading skills. Learning music can help with phonetic awareness and the ability to decode and comprehend written material.
6. Encourages Teamwork and Collaboration
Music often involves group activities like bands, choirs, and orchestras, where students learn the value of teamwork and collaboration, skills that are essential in both academic and professional settings.
7. Offers Lifelong Learning Opportunities
Music education instills a love for learning and self-improvement that lasts a lifetime. It teaches students that skills can always be improved and knowledge expanded.
8. Improves Mathematical Abilities
Music and math are intricately linked. Understanding rhythm, scales, and beats can enhance a student’s ability to grasp mathematical concepts, improving their analytical and problem-solving skills.
9. Reduces Stress and Enhances Well-being
Engaging in music can be a therapeutic and relaxing activity for students. It provides a healthy outlet for stress and contributes to overall mental and emotional well-being.
10. Prepares Students for Future Careers
Music education equips students with a variety of skills that are valuable in the workforce, such as discipline, focus, and the ability to receive and implement feedback effectively.
Take the next step by selecting an option below, or if you want to drop us a quick message, you can do so with the form.
Δ