Preston Manor Upper School Pupils: Year 7 – 13
(Please complete in neat, clear block capitals)
The Preston Manor Music Academy is a Saturday morning music school for 6 to 18
year olds that offers not only a wide choice of instrumental lessons but also the chance to
play in an orchestra or ensemble sing in a choir and study music theory. We currently offer
small group lessons in piano, keyboard, saxophone, clarinet, flute, violin, classical/electric
guitar, drum kit, dhol, tabla, harmonium and voice. Pupils attending Preston Manor’s Upper
School receive first priority.
A typical student would start at 9:00 or 9:30am with either an instrumental lesson or
the main Academy orchestra for more experienced players. General musicianship is
designed as a one year course for those that are new to music making and have yet to
develop the instrumental skills to join the orchestra. Once complete there are other
ensembles/groups to join including The New Ensemble, The Opposites (a Musical Futures
pop/rock group) and an Indian music group. During the day there are also several theory
classes. Studying music theory not only enables a student to achieve a greater
understanding of the music they are learning in their instrumental lessons but also allows
them to pursue the Associated Board/London College/Rock School exam system up to and
beyond grade five. The theory of music is not offered as part of the National Curriculum but
extra-curricular study can help any child in their appreciation and understanding of the
classroom music lessons at Preston Manor School. Also, the QCA now recognises that the
study of both practical and theoretical music to a grade five standard is equivalent in points
to a GCSE. Achieving above Grades 6 can also earn pupils UCAS points which count
towards meeting offers made by universities.
At 11:30 there is a short break where children can buy drinks, crisps, penny sweets
and chocolate from the tuck shop. The second half of the morning starts with a half hour long
choir session; material is taught with an emphasis on vocal technique and singing in a way
that will not damage young voices. This is compulsory for pupils in Years 7 and 8. The rest of
the day is devoted to instrumental lessons. There are also opportunities to learn Music
Technology and study recording, mixing and sequencing techniques.
At first, instrumental lessons are taken in small groups; pupils studying for GCSE or
A Level music at Preston Manor may have their lessons in pairs or individually, subject to the
Director of the Music’s approval. Whilst learners are encouraged to take graded exams; we
have had a number of recent exam successes in both practical and theoretical exams, this is
by no means compulsory.
Students at the Music Academy are often required to make a positive and significant
commitment to the musical life of the school as the ensembles and choirs are called upon to
perform in high profile school events such as the annual school musical, the Upper School
Awards Ceremony and various open evenings. Recently pupils from the Academy have
collaborated with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, The Royal Opera House, The Institute
of Education, The London College of Music and Media, The Wigmore Hall, BBC Music Jam,
Wells Cathedral School and regularly perform at venues such as Brent Town Hall.
Music Academy Application Form
Preston Manor Upper School Pupils: Year 7 – 13
(Please complete in neat, clear block capitals)
The Cost:
The Preston Manor Music Academy has a membership fee of £25 per child per term.
This entitles pupils to membership of an ensemble, choir, and a theory lesson. Instrumental
lessons in a group cost £40 per child per term. This is not the full cost of the lessons as the
school provides a considerable subsidy. Hire of a school instrument costs £18 per instrument
per term, inclusive of school holidays. Please note we are not able to hire out drum kits or
acoustic pianos. Each term lasts for 10 weeks with a concert in the middle of the spring term
and at the end of the summer term. If a child misses three Saturdays without satisfactory
explanation all lessons may be withdrawn.
PUPIL’S NAME:
Music Academy Membership:
FORM:
£25 (Please tick box)
This entitles your child to membership of an ensemble/group, choir and a setted
theory lesson. Please note this is not the full cost, Academy membership is usually
combined with a choice of instrument. Pupils may choose more than one instrument.
Instrumental lessons in a small group cost £40 per child per term. The average Music
Academy member pays £65 per term.
Instrument Choice – please tick the relevant box or boxes below :
Piano
Voice
Keyboard
Electric Guitar
Saxophone
Classical Guitar
Flute
Violin
Clarinet
Drum Kit
(Very limited Spaces)
Tabla
Dhol
Harmonium
Musical Experience:
(No previous musical experience is necessary)
Parent/Guardian Signature:
Contact Telephone Number: