Music Schools for Teenagers
2 February 2023
If your child is keen to pursue music and dedicated as well as talented, they might want to consider a specialist music school. In addition to regular academic subjects they are given extra time to learn and practice instruments. It’s a chance to be among peers who are equally passionate about music and gives lots of opportunities to perform together.
What Happens at Music Schools?
At music schools regular academic subjects must be completed to GCSE or Nat 5 level. Teenagers will be expected to devote up to three hours a day to practising their instruments, learning theory, aural work, learning about composition and studying great composers.
Performance is a major part of music school. Teenagers will perform regularly for each other but also for parents and the public at concerts and recitals. They might perform in other schools, care homes, churches and community halls. They might be part of a trio or quartet, a wind band or a full symphony orchestra.
Different Options
Teenagers may prefer to find a school that focuses on contemporary as well as traditional music. Jazz, indie and rock are all areas that resonate with them. There are so many careers in popular music that can be pursued, it is good preparation for that. Music technology enables teenagers to compose music by layering different instruments. The ability to record, playback and edit music allows them to experiment and improve pieces.
Benefits of Music School
A strong commitment to music provides teenagers with a sense of belonging. They benefit from being with like-minded individuals. Music gives them a chance to be themselves through self-expression. It can make them comfortable and relaxed and help them deal with pressures. Teenagers recognise that the self-discipline it takes to learn an instrument is a useful life skill. They enjoy the social aspects of being part of musical ensembles. They learn to be innovative and creative.
Musical training helps develop language, reasoning and maths. It helps hand-eye coordination and listening skills. It stimulates memory and it requires patience. It gives a great sense of achievement. So music benefits teenagers in their other studies and in life.
Is Music School Right for Your Teenager?
Dedicated music schools can be quite intense and may not be for every child. Many of them require boarding which may also not suit. Places are highly competitive with auditions and interviews being required. They are fee-paying but bursaries and scholarships are available. Some have government support from the government Music and Dance Scheme. Many mainstream schools have excellent music departments and provision if a dedicated school isn’t right for your teenager.
Alternatives to Full Time Music School
As well as specialist music schools, teenagers can join music summer schools or Saturday classes or have private instrument lessons. They will likely need to have done this to succeed at audition for music school. There may be a local youth orchestra they would enjoy.
Music school is great preparation for studying music at degree level and at Conservatoires. Equally, teenagers may choose to go on to a different degree and their musical experience will stand them in good stead both in gaining entry and in their future studies.