Music at Yardley Court
In class, boys are given support to compose and perform; remembering the need to understand the nuts and bolts of music, they are also taught basic theory, notation and musicianship skills appropriate to their individual level, and encouraged to stretch their own boundaries. Pupils listen to and work in a range of styles and genres, and explore music from over a thousand years of history, right up to the present day. Special projects include music for cartoons, music for films and work songs from around the world. The Music Room now benefits from an interactive whiteboard, and use is made of specialist music software. There is a new and comfortably furnished listening corner for the use of pupils during lessons and selected break times.
Pupils are given the option of studying one or more instruments individually during the school day, with tuition provided by a team of highly professional specialist peripatetic teachers. Instruments currently on offer include piano, electronic keyboard, violin, viola, cello, double bass, trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium, oboe, clarinet, flute, drums, acoustic guitar, electric guitar and voice. The Head of Music is always happy to receive enquiries from parents about possible instrumental tuition, and will gladly give advice if required. Soloists frequently perform in assembly, at the Tuesday afternoon soirées which run throughout the year, in the House Music Competition or at one of the main Schools at Somerhill concerts.
Many ensemble opportunities exist for pupils who wish to explore the immense satisfaction to be had collaborating with other musicians. The large orchestra and wind band both draw players from Yardley Court and Derwent Lodge, and all children who have reached an appropriate standard are invited to participate in these. We are also keen to encourage informal ensembles and bands at every level; if a few pupils are keen to set up a group and serious about giving it a go, they will always receive our support and backing, rehearsal space and advice.
For enthusiastic singers, Yardley Court offers a great deal; the basic premise being that everyone can sing and most people can enjoy it. Recognising both the fun and educational value which children can derive from singing, the Yardley Court Junior Choir involves every boy from Years Three and Four, and rehearses during curriculum time. Boys from Year Four to Eight can join the Yardley Court Senior Choir, which rehearses on Thursday mornings. Both these choirs perform in all Schools at Somerhill concerts and on other special occasions, including the very moving Christmas service in Tonbridge School chapel. We also take boys out to visit care homes for the elderly at Christmas time, to sing carols to and with the residents.
Boys who are particularly gifted and committed have the opportunity to audition for the Tonbridge School Chapel Choir, should they desire, which rehearses several times a week and regularly performs Cathedral repertoire; in return, Tonbridge School pays a contribution towards the school fees of Chapel Choristers.
The Music Department strongly supports Drama within the school, and several full-scale musical shows are produced on stage each year. These always involve large numbers of children singing on stage, and can also provide yet another opportunity for instrumentalists to participate.
In conclusion, the Music Department at Yardley Court enables pupils to make the most of music while they are with us, whilst also planting and nurturing the seeds which will hopefully grow into a long and wonderful association with music after they have left. We strive to be inclusive and inspirational, encouraging every boy to want to make music a part of his life, in some way, forever.
