Prospectus - The Purcell School
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Prospectus
Nurturing Talent Making Music Enriching Lives CONTENTS Welcome A Brief Background At Home Music Overview Strings Keyboard Brass, Percussion, Harp and Voice Woodwind Jazz Composition The Core Music Programme Academic Music Music Technology Academic Study Pastoral Care Life After The Purcell School Applications Fees and Financial Assistance How to Find Us 2019/20 Appendix - Principal, Governors, Patrons - Staff (Music and Academic) - Academic Results 2019 - FAQs - Events ‘I am blown away by the commitment, skill and infectious energy of the remarkable young musicians at The Purcell School.’ Sir Simon Rattle OM CBE, President Patron
Welcome
Nurturing the Next Generation of Musicians
‘Pupils will flourish in the specialised environment of The
Purcell School.’ - Vladimir Ashkenazy, Patron
The Purcell School is School’s unique contribution
Britain’s oldest specialist to music, education and
music school. Situated on international culture.
the outskirts of London in
Bushey, Hertfordshire, the co- The School affords ideal
educational boarding and day opportunities for practising,
school is home to around 180 performing and developing
musically gifted young people, musicianship, while also
all of whom are passionate providing a balanced academic
about fulfilling their talent. education which helps to
prepare our students for life-
We aim to provide young long careers as musicians.
musicians of remarkable
ability and promise, from The high quality of
all backgrounds, with the teaching and outstanding
best possible teaching and pastoral support is further
environment in which to fulfil complemented by a nurturing
their potential. We deliver environment in which
the very highest world-class students can form stimulating
musical instruction and hold and mutually supportive
the UNESCO Mozart Gold relationships with similarly
Medal in recognition of the gifted young people.
‘The School is a vibrant place
where creativity and discipline
go hand in hand, providing
specialist training for musicians
of the future, alongside an
excellent general education.’
Sir Simon Rattle OM CBE,
President Patron
A Brief Background A History of The Purcell School Rosemary Rapaport and Irene The School has been in Forster founded the School in Bushey ever since and, over 1962 at Conway Hall in central 50 years later, is considered a London under the original national treasure. It offers an name of the Central Tutorial exceptional music education, School for Young Musicians. in a creative and nurturing The School later moved environment, for students to Morley College, then to from around the United Hampstead, and on to a large Kingdom and all over the Victorian house in Harrow on world. the Hill. As it continued to grow and develop, the School changed its name in 1973 to The Purcell School, after the English composer Henry Purcell, and in 1997 relocated to the site of the former Royal Caledonian School campus in Bushey, Hertfordshire. ‘The School has developed from very modest beginnings into a sizeable school, which is justifiably proud of its place in the provision of specialist education for some of our most talented musical children’ HRH The Prince of Wales, Royal Patron
At Home Being on the edge of London, The School’s seventeen acres the School takes advantage of of Hertfordshire greenery all that the capital has to offer, have also made significant while also enjoying the semi- developments to the campus rural environment. possible. The close proximity to In 2007, for example, a new London, as a global centre boarding house and a state- for music, is of enormous of-the-art Music Centre were benefit to the School and opened. These additions students. The immediacy of create a fascinating and the capital provides access harmonious blend of solid to the eminent international Edwardian and sensitive musicians who comprise postmodern architecture. the instrumental teaching Built for specialist use, the faculty, affords outstanding facilities have enriched the performance opportunities musical lives of our students at many of London’s principal and teaching staff alike. cultural venues, and stimulates successful applications to the country’s foremost music colleges and conservatoires. ‘For children who possess that desire to learn music, to perform, and have the commitment to practice, the School provides an environment where budding musicians can thrive’ Purcell Parent
Music Overview
A Programme of Musical Excellence
The Purcell School aims collaboration with the
to provide a stimulating student and instrumental
and challenging musical teacher, will craft a bespoke
environment, at the heart of programme of study to best
which is an individually tailored suit the individual’s needs
programme for every student. and afford the flexibility
to enable daily practice.
We strive to ensure that the Disciplines of Academic
balance of musical studies and Music, including aural, theory,
the weighting of musical and harmony, composition, music
academic work are balanced history and analysis, support
to suit each individual boy and and broaden students’
girl. instrumental studies, and
are a key part of the School’s
There are six Instrumental holistic approach to a musical
Music departments within education.
the School, each led by
an experienced Head of Our expert specialist teachers,
Department: many of whom also teach at
the London conservatoires,
1. Strings have considerable experience
2. Keyboard working with motivated young
3. Brass, Percussion, Harp & Voice musicians and will develop
4. Woodwind individual practice goals
5. Composition and strategies for students.
6. Jazz We also provide practice
supervisors, themselves
Students musical lives are graduate musicians, to
cared for by their Head of support efficient and effective
Department who, in practice.
‘The School’s supportive family atmosphere allows pupils to
immerse themselves in their musical studies alongside other
talented young musicians, and to get closer to the heart of their
music.’
Vladimir Ashkenazy, Patron6
Instrumental
Music Departments
57
Instrumental
Teachers
3
Practice
Supervisors
‘The combination of characteristics of the School is a winning one: respect
for the individual, high educational standards, the stressing of practice
discipline, and the chance to make chamber music and orchestral performance
to the highest standards.’
Nicholas Daniel, Oboist and AlumnusMusic Overview
Regular masterclasses, Festival, Cadogan, Wigmore
recitals, courses and and Milton Court Halls.
collaborative projects with
celebrated visiting musicians Our Music Centre provides
further enhance our students’ excellent facilities. A state-
instrumental studies and offer of-the-art recording studio,
invaluable exposure to the recital hall, computerised
wider music world. composition classrooms, and
a suite of dedicated teaching
They benefit from an enriched and practice rooms offer ideal
musical programme that surroundings in which our
includes chamber music, students learn and flourish.
orchestral playing, choirs,
jazz and piano recitals. Each department maintains
Performance opportunities close links with music colleges
are frequent and varied, and and conservatoires around
can range from daily lunchtime the country; all have excellent
concerts in School to formal records of entry and of
recitals at London’s leading securing scholarships.
performing venues. There
are, for example, numerous Accolades from the music
opportunities to audition for world are fittingly similar, and
the chance to play with the students are regularly the
School’s orchestras and give recipients of prestigious and
solo recitals at prestigious fiercely competitive awards.
venues such as the Royal
‘I don’t think that I would have
developed musically as much as
I have, had I not come to this
School. The excellent tuition
and performance opportunities
make for an incredibly focused
and musical environment.’
Purcell Parent13,875
Instrumental
Music Departments
180
Performances
Every Year
‘Purcell is a truly
unique environment, full
of once-in-a-lifetime
opportunities, a mix of
vibrant characters from
all over the globe and a
mutual appreciation of
music.’
Purcell StudentStrings
Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass and Guitar
Our thriving Strings Furthermore, students can
department nurtures string attend the School’s Chamber
players as they work towards Music Academy which benefits
acquiring a solid technical from the immense experience
foundation and, as well as of members of Chilingirian,
developing their skills as Endellion, and Elias Quartets,
soloists, become accustomed to name but a few. String
to working as part of a group. masterclasses take place
regularly with outstanding
Chamber music and orchestral visiting artists such as Zakhar
playing are key to the musical Bron, Natalia Gutman and
education of our string Craig Ogden.
players. The School runs a
Junior String Orchestra, Over and above the usual
a Chamber Orchestra and School orchestral and
a Symphony Orchestra concerto opportunities,
in support of this, and all selected string ensembles
students in Year 9 and above will perform in our annual
are given the opportunity to Chamber Music Concert,
play chamber music in weekly and senior string players can
coaching sessions. audition to perform a short
recital in one of our solo
instrumentalists’ concerts.
Recent Masterclass Musicians
Atar Arad | Remus Azoitei | Sandy Baillie Marius Bedeschi
Zakhar Bron | Luis Cabrera | Robert Cohen | Graham Devine
The Elias Quartet | Natalia Gutman | Alina Ibragimova
Guy Johnston | Louise Lansdown | Natalia Lomeiko
Craig Ogden | Gabriele Ragghianti | Declan ZapalaKeyboard
Piano, Organ and Harpsicord
First study pianists comprise Notable destinations have
approximately a quarter of the been Italy, to perform at the
School’s student body, making Fazioli Concert Hall in Sacile,
the Keyboard department a and Scotland, to play at and
dynamic and inspiring place in collaborate with the Royal
which to study. Conservatoire of Scotland
as part of their International
In addition to providing Piano Festival.
expert individual tuition, the
department runs weekly The faculty has a strong
faculty classes to allow international outlook,
pianists the opportunity designed to prepare students
to come together, share for life as professional
ideas and learn from each musicians, which has,
other. Student progression for example, seen Alim
is further enhanced by Beisembayev become the
regular masterclasses given first winner of the Van Cliburn
by internationally renowned Junior Competition while a
pianists, and an annual piano student at the School and
course which culminates in triumph as an alumnus in
a concert involving all Middle the 2017 Jaques Samuel
and Upper School pianists. Pianos Intercollegiate Piano
Competition.
There are many standout
performance occasions for Alexander Ullman, a Purcell
pianists. Auditions are held alumnus, won the 11th
each year to secure the International Franz Liszt Piano
chance to perform a piano Competition, and Martin James
recital in a prominent London Bartlett, then a student at the
venue, and the department School, was the winner of the
undertakes international and 2014 BBC Young Musician of
domestic performance tours the Year.
when possible.
Recent Masterclass Musicians
Bernard d’Ascoli | Dmitri Alexeev | Vladimir Ashkenazy
Paul Badura-Skoda | Federico Colli | Philip Fowke
Martin Jones | Angela Hewitt | Vanessa Latarche
Dominique Merlet | Hamish Milne | Ronan O’Hora
Vladimir Ovchinnikov | Andras Schiff | Nina SvetlanovaBrass, Percussion, Harp and Voice
Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Timpani
and Percussion, Harp and Voice
The Brass, Percussion, In addition to mixed chamber
Harp and Voice department music there are several
provides exciting opportunities family-group ensembles
for learning and performing, which provide additional
with a world-class team of performance opportunities,
instrumental teachers who are and for first and second
leaders in solo, chamber and study voice pupils there are
orchestral performance. chamber choirs and many solo
performance opportunities.
Each student’s journey is
individual, and the department Many of our students are
offers rich and diverse members of the National
programmes for these Youth Orchestra (NYO) and
instruments which develop National Children’s Orchestra
students both as solo players (NCO), and attend Junior
and as flexible ensemble conservatoire departments on
members – a combination of a Saturday.
qualities that will be essential
for their future success.
Players from this department
form a vital part of the
Chamber and Symphony
Orchestras, as well as
chamber groups and the
Contemporary Ensemble.
Recent Masterclass Musicians
Henry Baldwin | Alison Balsom | Adrian Bending | Nigel Black
Phil Cobb | Oliver Cox | Mark David | Tim Evans-Jones
Byron Fulcher | Owen Gunnell | Patrick King | Arthur Lipner
Kevin Price | David Pyatt | Rex Richardson | Marisa Robles
Adrian SpillettWoodwind Flute, Oboe, Recorder, Bassoon, Clarinet and Saxophone The Woodwind department at experience as soloists, The Purcell School is staffed chamber musicians and by an outstanding team orchestral players. drawn from Britain’s finest woodwind players, several of Frequent visits and recitals whom also are professors at from leading musicians further leading conservatoires and all enhance the department’s of whom share a clear focus dedication to encouraging to help prepare students for students to challenge their a career in and around music own playing and explore new performance. performance styles. With chamber music at The department holds an the heart of the Woodwind annual Woodwind Day, which department, students play is open to young woodwind a key role in the School’s players of Grade 6 standard orchestras and baroque and above. Coached ensembles, as well as by members of the faculty, the regularly performing in family workshops, ensemble playing groupings. They also play a and performance classes vital role in the contemporary provide a valuable insight for ensembles and often prospective students into this collaborate with players from enthusiastic, supportive and other departments on new vibrant department. projects. This diverse range of performance opportunities allows students to gain Recent Masterclass Musicians Sarah Burnett | Nicholas Daniel | Kate Hill | Chi-Yu Mo Naomi Sullivan
Jazz
Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Piano,
Guitar, Drum Kit and Voice
Jazz is an established and Jazz students will also be
flourishing department. given the opportunity to
Renowned within and outside play in some of London’s
the School, it comprises most renowned Jazz venues,
an inspirational team of including Pizza Express Dean
experienced teachers Street and the 606 Club.
and performers who are
uniquely placed to oversee The department is a great
the development of creative gateway into studying jazz
musicians. at conservatoire level, and
students from the Jazz
Ensemble provision is an department regularly achieve
important part of the Jazz considerable success.
programme. As well as the
School’s senior and junior In 2016, for example,
improvisation groups, first study jazz trumpeter
students can participate Alexandra Ridout won the
in ad hoc ensemble-based prestigious BBC Young
groupings and become Musician Jazz Award, and jazz
part of The Purcell School’s students are often sought
celebrated Big Band. The Big after as members of the
Band gives non-jazz specialists National Youth Jazz Orchestra
a chance to perform alongside (NYJO) and the National Youth
first study jazz players, and Jazz Collective (NYJC). Recent
has provided students with graduates of the department
the opportunity to work with include the multiple Grammy
eminent jazz players such as Award winning jazz pianist
Steve Waterman, Troyka and Jacob Collier, Kit Downes, Jake
Stan Sulzman. Labazzi and Seth Tackaberry.
Recent Masterclass Musicians
Laurence Cottle | Geoff Gascoyne | Gareth Lockrane
Gerard Presencer | Orphy Robinson | Stan Sulzman
Clark Tracey | TroykaComposition The Purcell School is able to and performers in offer exceptional opportunities collaboration with professional for young composers who will organisations such as the thrive in the stimulating and Saatchi Gallery, UK Beijing creative environment of the Arts Association and the UK’s Composition department. music conservatoires. First study composers receive up to two hours of individual Senior students are afforded tuition in composition per the opportunity to submit week, alongside an agreed an original composition for programme of instrumental performance in the School’s study appropriate to their annual Symphony Orchestra individual needs. Concert. Regular seminars, workshops, As a core component of the group discussions and Academic Music curriculum, meetings with young and students from Years 6 to 10 celebrated composers enable receive regular class tuition students to learn more about in composition. Composers new music, the contemporary are taught the technique of scene and how to create developing ideas in a coherent opportunities for their work to way and are exposed to a be heard and appreciated. variety of methods and styles. Composition students are Celebrated alumni of the encouraged to submit their Composition department work for consideration include Oliver Knussen, Dru in national festivals and Masters, Simon Bainbridge, competitions, and to Jacob Collier, Mica Levi and participate in a wide range of Alissa Firsova. composers’ projects, concerts Recent Masterclass Musicians Joaquim Badia Arumi | Lloyd Coleman | Philip Dutton Shiva Feshareki | Graham Fitkin | Karin Henricksen | Joy Hill David Horne | Emily Howard | James Hoyle | Haris Kittos William Mival | Music Off Canvas | Roxanna Panufnik Polo Piatti | Matt Rogers | Robert Saxton | Lucie Treacher Judith Weir | Dr Cheng Yu
The Core Music Programme
An Education with Music at its Heart
In addition to instrumental Similarly, we aim to provide
teaching, The Purcell School them with all the tools
provides a general musical necessary for success in the
literacy coupled with the highly volatile and competitive
practical experience of the world of music.
great musical masterworks
appropriate to each student’s We ensure that they are able
specialist study. to promote themselves in
the wider world and online,
Analysis, aural training, music that they possess a sound
theory and history of music understanding and experience
are integral parts of the of organising musical events,
School’s curriculum, and it is and have a comprehensive
through the teaching of these awareness of the range of
subjects and skills that our roles available to them.
students are able to develop
a broad and rich musical
awareness.
‘To be surrounded by so many
people who share the same
interest as you is a wonderful
feeling, and it has helped my
playing and musicality to
improve massively.’
Purcell StudentAcademic Music
The goal of the Academic local schools. In addition, they
Music department is to undertake an introductory
assist students in becoming course in Music Technology.
informed, imaginative and
enquiring musicians. It aims In the Sixth Form, students
to provide a wide range of work towards the Cambridge
musical skills and to enable Pre-U qualifications in Music
students to use these skills and have lessons in analysis,
creatively. music history, harmony,
composition and aural. They
In addition to aural and are coached in preparation
composition classes, all for Music College entry tests,
Year 6 to 9 students study and Upper Sixth students who
a series of set works which intend to go to university are
form the basis of creative and given a series of lessons
analytical projects designed to to prepare them for entrance
expand their general musical examinations and interviews.
knowledge and inform their Each year a number of
practical instrumental studies. student go on to read Music
Students are entered for at university, including Oxford,
IGCSE at the end of Year 10. In Cambridge, Durham and King’s
Year 11 students undertake an College, London.
intense harmony course and
an in-depth study of larger The School was awarded the
scale works. They also work ISM Gold Certificate in Music
on various creative projects, for GCSE attainment, and
including training in workshop were confirmed as ranking top
leadership, culminating in the UK’s Academic Music
in outreach performances in results.
‘Purcell enables me to be
immersed in a musically rich
environment alongside like-
minded people who
share a mutual passion.
Purcell StudentMusic Technology
The Music Technology Special courses involving the
department generates and use of technology are taught
fosters creativity in students lower down the School, and all
using the latest recording and students have access to the
computer technology.With six computer rooms throughout
AV links allowing the recording the day for their individual
of our best pianos direct to work.
the studios and all concerts
in the School being captured Composition for film is a
direct to the two automated growing feature of the
recording systems, music department’s work.
technology touches on many Performances of new music
areas of music making. for silent film, composed and
conducted by students, are a
The course covers all aspects regular feature in the concerts
of creative studio work diary. It is the School’s two
including stereo ambient annual Sound Image
recording, multi-track Movement concerts, however,
recording, electro-acoustic which enable students to use
music, arranging, studio technology most creatively
engineering, producing and and across multiple genres.
composing for film. Students These concerts, and the
have access to cutting edge facilities of the department,
technology and are equipped were the main outlet for
with essential knowledge for the work of several notable
future work in the studio- alumni, including Jacob Collier
music environment. The and Mica Levi, as well as many
subject is taught at AS and A other students who have
Level following the Edexcel gone on to study on electronic
syllabus and students are music courses. Many alumni
encouraged to work well are working as producers,
beyond the briefs and limits film composers, and sound
set by the board. engineers in the industry.
‘Purcell is a truly unique environment, full of once-in-a-lifetime
opportunities, a mix of vibrant characters from all over the globe
and a mutual appreciation of music.’
Purcell StudentAcademic Study An Inspiring Academic Programme The Purcell School believes Although most of our students that world-class musicianship are aiming for a career in is best nurtured when music and will progress to a young performers and conservatoire or university to composers are possessed of read music, this path is never a broad cultural awareness, taken for granted. cultivated by an excellent general education. Students The key to the success of are encouraged to regard our curriculum is balance. their academic studies as Depending on a student’s an essential complement to age and instrumental their performing skills: the commitments, between 25% curriculum aims to nurture and 50% of curricular time is a rich cultural hinterland for spent on musical activities. each young person, such that their musicality is deepened as a result. Running alongside the music programme, our academic curriculum allows students to fulfil their musical potential without limiting their choices. ‘At The Purcell School a career in music is not taken for granted and a broad range of academic subjects is included ... without diminishing the musical priority’ Sir Thomas Armstrong, Founding Patron
1:4
Teacher to
Student Ratio
Year 6
Year 6 teaching focusses on and Science (Biology, Chemistry
the development of good social and Physics, with most students
and moral attitudes, on the gaining a Double Award).
enjoyment of learning and on Optional subjects include
the acquisition of skills and English Literature, French,
knowledge. The dedicated German, Additional Science,
Year 6 class teacher covers History, Art and Drama. All
English, Mathematics, Science, students have one session each
Humanities and PSHE (Personal, week of Physical Education.
Social, Health and Economic Examination boards vary from
Education). Musical activities, subject to subject, and are
Art and PE (Physical Education) chosen according to which
are taught by specialist staff. specification suits our students
There is one supervised practice best.
session during each School day.
Sixth Form
Years 7 and 8 To enter the Sixth Form,
Students have lessons in Music, students are expected to have
English, Mathematics, Science, five or more GCSE or IGCSE
French, History, Art, Drama, passes at grade C or above,
Games and PSHE. For overseas or the equivalent for overseas
students EAL (English as an students. Some subjects require
Additional Language) lessons a minimum GCSE gradeto
may be substituted for, perhaps, continue the subject in the Sixth
a foreign language, Art or Form, as outlined in the Sixth
History. Practice sessions during Form Options booklet. Sixth
the school day are supervised. Formers are advised to take
three subjects – Pre-U Music
and two A Level subjects – over
Year 9 the course of Lower Sixth and
In Year 9, students follow a full Upper Sixth. Very exceptionally,
range of academic courses a student may take four
while musical commitments subjects but only after
continue to increase. German discussion with the Deputy
is added for all as a second Head or Head of Sixth Form.
foreign language. For overseas students EAL can
replace one A Level option.
Years 10 and 11 In addition to the compulsory
Students are advised to take Cambridge Pre-U Music, A
seven or a maximum of eight Level subjects on offer are:
GCSE or IGCSE subjects. All Art, Biology, Chemistry, English
students take IGCSE Music at Literature, French, German,
the end of Year 10. Other GCSEs History, Mathematics, Music
and IGCSEs are taken at the Technology, Physics, Theatre
end of Year 11. All students take Studies, and Pre-U Philosophy
Mathematics, English Language and Theology.
Please note that the curriculum and its delivery are under constant review and may
change from year to year. For recent exam results, please see the supporting cards at
the rear of the prospectus.79% 4Students are
Boarders
Boarding
Houses
15
Boarding and
Pastoral Staff
1
Onsite
Nurse
1
Onesite
Physiotherapist
1
Online Counsellor
(Weekly)
‘All the facilities are on site all the time ... at home I had to practise
in my kitchen!’ - Purcell Student
‘We’ve all got the same interests – we’re interested in music – so instantly
everyone has something in common.’ - Purcell Student
‘Providing exactly the right environment for its brilliant young students to flourish
amongst like-minded individuals.’ - Good School’s Guide, 2018Pastoral Care
A Home from Home
The Purcell School is an of musical and co-curricular
informal and welcoming activities, and to build lifelong
place, with a strong sense of friendships. Boarding also
community and determination prepares students
to provide students with the for the independence they will
best possible environment for have in Further Education.
both work and home life. The boarding houses are
The School offers flexible run by a dedicated team of
solutions to meet the needs warm and caring boarding
of different families in terms and pastoral staff, who are
of full or weekly boarding, responsible for each student’s
and, whether attending as a welfare and wellbeing.
boarding or day student, all Weekend activities, evening
students are assigned to one events and social gatherings
of the School’s four boarding are regularly organised, and
houses for pastoral support students are able
and to provide a social base. to travel into London to attend
the junior departments of
Boarders the capital’s music colleges
With approximately 79% of and conservatoires or enjoy
students boarding, the School concerts and events. All
feels like a home from home, boarding first study Sixth Form
and the boarders lead very full pianists have the use of an
lives. As travel time is reduced upright piano in their study
there is more time to practise, bedrooms.
to ensure academic work is
completed to a high standard, Day Students
to be involved in a breadth Day students at The Purcell
School are able to take full
advantage of the boarding
‘My daughter has blossomed in school day and reap the
an environment that has many benefits from all that
nurtured her, both musically is on offer. As they progress
through the School, they will
and personally. It has been often stay late in the evening
amazing to watch her develop to participate in events.
... to say she is happy at
school is an understatement.’
Purcell ParentLife After The Purcell School
Having received an We are very proud of our
outstanding musical and former students, many of
strong academic education, whom have enjoyed national
most students go on to be and international success.
successful in their chosen They can be found in the
fields. We take great care major orchestras of the UK
in nurturing and offering and across the world, as well
guidance to ensure our as in leading ensembles.
leavers make informed Recent notable alumni include
choices about their futures BBC Young Musician of the
and find the right place to Year 2014 pianist Martin
continue their studies. In the James Bartlett, Royal Harpist
main they graduate to study Anne Denholm, twice Grammy
music at one of the Award winning Jazz pianist
top London music colleges, Jacob Collier and Oscar
often having been offered and BAFTA nominated film
scholarships. composer Mica Levi, to name
but a few!
Destinations of leavers
also include the UK’s top
universities, including Oxford
and Cambridge. These routes
are usually taken to study
Music, but each year a handful
will follow other interests
such as Physics, Aeronautical
Engineering and History.
Alumni Include
Martin James Bartlett | Alim Beisembayev | Julian Bliss
Daisy Chute | Robert Cohen | Jacob Collier | Nicholas Daniel
Anne Denholm | Julius Drake | Catrin Finch | Teo Gheorgiu
Janice Graham | Kerem Hasan | Oliver Knussen | Min-Jin Kym
Jack Liebeck | Mica Levi | Lara Melda | Joseph Phibbs
Alexandra Ridout | Karim Said | Joo Yeon Sir | Yevgeny Sudbin
Alexander UllmanApplications
The Purcell School welcomes Postal Applications
applications from all talented The application form must be
young musicians between the returned to the Registrar with
ages of 10 and 18. a £35 application fee and a
written recommendation from
We consider musical ability the applicant’s instrumental
and promise to be more teacher(s). We ask that
significant than grade any overseas candidates
attainment, and are looking include evidence of a recent
for evidence of musical skill, performance, be this in the
desire, commitment and form of a DVD, YouTube link or
potential. However, pupils do similar.
require five or more GCSE or
IGCSE passes at grade C or Please make all cheques
above, or the equivalent for payable to ‘The Purcell School’.
overseas pupils, in order to
enter the Sixth Form. Online Applications
Applications can also be
How to Apply received by emailing the
To be considered for a place at completed application form
The Purcell School, you must to the Registrar. To submit
first apply for an audition. The an application online, the
audition process takes part in £35 registration fee must
two stages – the preliminary be paid through the website
and main auditions. and the applicant’s written
recommendation attached. We
Application Form require overseas applicants
All candidates must complete to provide YouTube footage
the School’s application or Sound Cloud recordings
form. This can be found in of a recent performance for
the prospectus and on our consideration.
website as a downloadable
PDF. Applications can be
received by post or email.
Please direct any queries about the application process to the
School Registrar, on admissions@purcell-school.orgPreliminary Audition Offer
The preliminary audition is Following a successful
similar to the main audition audition, the candidate will
except that the candidate will either be offered a place
play to the appropriate Head (normally within two weeks
of Department only. This is to of the audition) or placed on
assess the level of candidate a waiting list and informed if
musicianship, musicality, and when a place becomes
technique, and potential. It is a available.
less pressurised environment
than a main audition and Important Dates
often helps to settle nerves. Applications are considered as
they come in, and there are many
Main Audition advantages in applying early
For a main audition, in the process. Candidates are
assessed in relation to their age
candidates will be asked to and potential at time of audition,
prepare and play two pieces so there is no advantage in
on their first instrument and waiting to audition later in the
one piece on their second year.
instrument (if relevant). The
pieces are of the applicant’s Application deadline 28th
own choice. Sight-reading February 2020: applications
and aural tests will be set. received by 28th February 2020
Candidates will be interviewed will be guaranteed an audition,
provided that criteria for
by an audition panel, which shortlisting are met.
will include the relevant Head
of Department, and will sit Later applications may be
a Theory of Music paper. considered, but remaining
The Head of EAL will assess audition spaces will be
candidates for whom English very limited and cannot be
is not their first language. guaranteed. Late applications
will only be considered in very
Following the main audition, exceptional circumstances.
candidates and their parents
will be given a tour of the
School, which for boarders will
include a visit to a boarding
house, and will meet with the
Head and Bursar.
An audition fee of £50,
payable to ‘The Purcell School’
by cheque or online, must
be made and received by
the relevant audition date to
guarantee an audition.Fees and Financial Assistance
The Purcell School is funding from the Department
committed to providing the for Education is therefore
best education available to essential. For example, in
talented musicians, regardless 2016/17, 63% of students
of financial means. We are received support from the
able to do this with the Government’s Music and
support of the Government Dance Scheme and, as a direct
and a selection of trusts and result, 49 students paid less
private sponsors. than £1,000 per year in fees.
The fees for the academic year To be eligible for a place on
2018/19 are: the Music and Dance Scheme,
students must have been
Annual Termly
resident in the UK for at least
two years.
Boarding £34,152 £11,384
Bursaries are available for
Day £26,748 £8,916
those students who meet the
eligibility criteria under the
Department for Education
Music and Dance Scheme.
Fees are payable in advance The scheme is means- tested,
at the beginning of each term. and the following table gives
The School fee covers the full an indication of approximately
cost of tuition, including up to how much parents will be
three hours of instrumental asked to pay.
tuition each week. Boarding
fees include accommodation, Please be aware that special
all meals and laundry costs. rules apply to European Union
students over the age of 16
and UK citizens living abroad.
The Music & Dance Scheme
Additional information can be
The School’s key priority is found at www.gov.uk/music-
to ensure that every young dance-scheme.
musician can attend The
Purcell School based on their
musical ability and not their
ability to pay. Means-testedGross Family Annual Contribution to be made by Parent
Income/Annum Day Boarding
£190,000 £24,093 £32,184
£185,000 £23,343 £31,185
£80,000 £7,593 £10,191
£50,000 £3,378 £4,662
£30,000 £1,350 £1,683
£10,000 £0 £0
School Bursaries
Students who are not eligible Bursary staff are always
for the MDS Scheme may available at Open Mornings to
apply for assistance from the give additional information or
School’s Bursary fund. Funding advice.
is based on need and parents
are required to declare their Enquiries should be directed
financial circumstances for to the Bursar (01923 331127)
consideration by the School’s or Finance Office (01923
Bursary Committee. 331106).
Parents of prospective
students are welcome to
discuss their individual
circumstances with the
Bursar, either when visiting
the School for auditions or
over the telephone, so that a
broad indication of their likely
contribution to fees can be
provided.How to Find Us
The Purcell School is situated The Purcell School
on the outskirts of London Aldenham Road
in the town of Bushey, Bushey
Hertfordshire. Hertfordshire
WD23 2TS
We are a 30-minute walk or a
five-minute drive from Bushey Tel: 01923 331100
railway station, which has a Fax: 01923 331166
fast (19-minute) connection to
the capital. The M1 and M25 info@purcell-school.org
are minutes from the School, www.purcell-school.org
giving easy access to the rest
of the UK. Heathrow and @PurcellSchool
Luton airports are 30 minutes
away by car, while Gatwick @the_purcell_school
and Stansted are closer to an
hour’s journey. The Purcell School
There is ample car parking on @PurcellSchool
site.
To receive the Events Guide and updates by email, please send
your full contact details to publicity@purcell-school.org2019/20 Appendix
Principal
Paul Bambrough
‘The Purcell School is a lively, vibrant and energetic community of
young musicians who are united by a common passion for music and
driven by a collective ambition to become the finest version of themselves
possible. One has only to spend a short time at the school to fall in love
with its unique atmosphere and to be inspired by the commitment and
dedication of our astonishing young artists. Each day is viewed as an
opportunity to explore new ideas, to achieve something extraordinary
and to make progress towards a personal goal; and when a student
achieves something special, we all celebrate with them!’
Paul Bambrough was previously of the largest A Level Music
the Vice-Principal at the Royal Department in the country
Birmingham Conservatoire comprising some 500 students
where he had responsibility actively engaged on courses
for all aspects of the day-to- and enrichment activities.
day running of the institution, Paul has also worked as an
the artistic programme, inspector in Post- 16 music
curriculum and collaborative institutions, and has been
partnerships. He is a devoted sought as a consultant in many
teacher and also taught within colleges around the country. He
the Department of Vocal and believes in the transformational
Operatic Studies as well as power of music and seeks to
contributing to undergraduate communicate the great joy of
programmes in Pedagogy, the music to all those with whom he
postgraduate Lecture Recital works.
module, and the Orchestral
Conducting course. As a tenor, Paul has performed
at most of the UK’s foremost
Described by a former Secretary concert halls and cathedrals. He
of State for Education as ‘one is a harpsichordist, organist and
of the most inspiring teachers’, pianist and has had the good
Paul Bambrough has gained a fortune to work as a Repetiteur
national reputation for his work with some of the world’s finest
in state music education. Whilst singers. Away from music
Director of Music at the Sixth he enjoys the countryside,
Form College Farnborough, architecture and maintains a
his passionate dedication to (largely) enthusiastic fitness
excellence led to the creation routine.The School Patrons and Governors Royal Patron: HRH The Prince of Wales PATRONS President: Sir Simon Rattle OM, CBE Vladimir Ashkenazy Sir Andrew Davis CBE Mrs Donatella Flick Dame Kiri Te Kanawa DBE Evgeny Kissin Dame Fanny Waterman DBE GOVERNORS Chairman: Sir Roger Jackling CBE Chairman of Finance & General Purposes Committee: Charles Beer Chairman of the Music and Education Committee: James Fowler Professor Timothy Blinko B Mus Hons, M Mus, Dip Jonathan Eley MA Janice Graham ARCM, AGSM, ACT Professor Colin Lawson CBE, MA, PhD, DMus, FRCM, FRNCM, FLCM William McDonnell BA Dr Rebecca Mooney DPhil, Mst, MA Ian Odgers MA Mark Racz BA, MFA Hon, FBC Hon Joanna Van Heyningen OBE MA, DipArch Kirsty Von Malaisé MA LEADERSHIP TEAM Principal: Paul Bambrough Director of Music: Paul Hoskins Deputy Principal: Christine Rayfield Bursar: Adam Wroblewski Head of Pastoral and Safeguarding: Elizabeth Searle Head of Boarding: Jane Malan Head of Sixth Form: Ziggy Szafranski (Listed as at October 2019)
Music Staff Director of Music: Paul Hoskins HEADS OF MUSIC DEPARTMENTS Head of Strings: Charles Sewart Head of Keyboard: William Fong Head of Woodwind: Joy Farrall Head of Jazz: Simon Allen Head of Composition: Alison Cox Head of Academic Music: Mary-Kate Gill Head of Music Technology: Aidan Goetzee STRINGS BRASS, PERCUSSION, HARP & Charles Sewart (HoD, Violin / Viola) VOICE Richard Jenkinson (Assistant HoD) Daphne Boden (Harp) Pál Banda (Cello) Tony Cross (Trumpet) Aiste Dvarionaite Berzanskiene (Violin) Daniella Ganeva (Percussion) Alexander Boyarsky (Cello) Tom Marandola (Voice) Sarah-Jane Bradley (Viola) Charlotte Seale (Harp) Tony Cross (Alexander Technique) Jill Washington (Voice) Tony Cucchiara (Violin) Stephen Wick (Tuba) Ben J Davies (Cello) Alda Dizdari (Violin) WOODWIND Cathy Elliott (Double Bass) Joy Farrall (HoD, Clarinet) Tanja Goldberg (Violin) Amy Green (Saxophone) Sadagat Mamedova-Rashidova (Violin) Graham Hobbs (Bassoon) Francesco Mariani (Guitar) Barbara Law (Recorder) Jean Mercer (Alexander Technique) Anna Pope (Flute) Julian-David Metzger (Cello) Melanie Ragge (Oboe) Nathaniel Vallois (Violin) Stephen Williams (Clarinet) KEYBOARD JAZZ William Fong (HoD, Piano) Simon Allen (HoD, Jazz Saxophone) Lidia Amorelli (Piano) Sebastiaan de Krom (Jazz Drums) Justas Dvarionas (Piano) David Gordon (Jazz Piano) David Gordon (Harpsichord & Jacqueline Hicks (Jazz Voice) Improvisation) George Hogg (Jazz Trumpet) Caterina Grewe (Piano) Christopher Montague (Jazz Guitar) Gareth Hunt (Piano) John Turvills (Jazz Piano) Jianing Kong (Piano) Steve Waterman (Jazz Trumpet) Alla Kravchenko (Piano) Ching-Ching Lim (Piano) COMPOSITION Tessa Nicholson (Piano) Alison Cox (HoD) Danielle Salamon (Piano) Philip Dutton (Compositions Assistant) Tatiana Sarkissova (Piano) Jacques Cohen (Composition) Deborah Shah (Piano/Accompanist) Joseph Phibbs (Composition) Daniel Swain (Accompanist) Simon Speare (Composition) Patsy Toh (Piano) Nafis Umerkulova (Piano)
Academic Staff
Kristian Angelov Robert Matthews
(Philosophy & Theology) (German)
Adriana Blond Stevie Mitchell
(English) (Mathematics, Boarding Tutor)
Rachel Branch Darrell Pigott
(PSHE) (Head of History)
Margaret Brookes Christine Rayfield
(Chemistry, Head of Science) (Academic Music)
Alison Cox Nadine Sender
(Academic Music) (Head of Art)
Jacob Downes Jyoti Shah
(Aural Teacher) (Mathematics)
Svetlana Emelianova Adam Simmonds
(Science) (English)
Panos Fellas Alexandra Stone
(Science, Physics) (Head of Mathematics)
Aidan Goetzee Martina Swift
(Head of Music Technology) (EAL)
Deborah Harris Ziggi Szafranski
(Juniors) (Drama)
Jocelyne Hazan Irina Walters
(French) (Aural Teacher, Academic Music)
Kinga Kozak Dorothy Withers
(EAL) (Biology)
Andrew Leverton Sally-Ann Whitty
(Head of English) (Head of Learning Support)
Edward Longstaff Elizabeth Willan
(Academic Music) (Head of Modern Languages, Head of
French)
Jane Malan
(History, English) Andrew Williams
(Academic Music)Academic Results 2019
Year 13 A LEVEL & pre-U 2019
Pre-U D1 D2 D3 M1 M2 M3 P1 P2 P3
(a*+) (a*) (a) (a/b) (b) (c) (c/d) (d) (e)
Music (44 entries) 1 12 18 7 3 2 1
Philosophy & 1 3
Theology (7
entries)
A level subjects entries A* A B C D E
Music Technology 18 2 4 5 4 2
Art (Fine Art; Photography) 6 1 2 3
Biology 1 1
Drama 3 1 1 1
English Literature 7 2 2 3
French 7 1 1 1 2 2
German 6 3 1 1 1
History 7 3 1 2 1
Japanese 1 1
Mathematics 10 3 2 1 2
Physics 3 1 2
A Level statistics 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
including
pre-U equivalents in 2018
Percentage A* + A 49% 50% 29% 26% 42% 31% 39%
Percentage A* - B 63% 71% 60% 59% 72% 55% 70%
Percentage A* - E 95% 100% 99% 98% 100% 96% 99%
Year 12 AS LEVEL 2019
Subject entries A B C D E
Music Technology 13 1 5 2 2 3
Biology 3 1 1 1
Physics 4 1 1 2
Year 12 IGCSE LEVEL 2019
Subject entries A B C D E
English as a second language 2 1 1
!"
"YEAR 11 students’ GCSE & IGCSE RESULTS 2019
number grades entries 9(*) 8(*/a) 7(a) 6(b) 5(b/c) 4(c) 3(d) 2(e)
letter grades entries A* A B C D E
Music*† 25 19 4 2
English (1st Language)† 24 5 8 8 1 1
English Literature† 16 4 4 5 2 1
English (2nd Lang.)* † 2 1 1
Drama 10 1 1 3 3 2
French 11 2 6 3
German 5 1 1 1 2
Japanese* 1 1
Art 11 1 2 2 5 1
History 10 4 3 1 1 1
Science (Combined)† 9 1 5 1 1
Science (double
13 3 2 6 1 1
award)†
Biology† 2 1
Chemistry† 1 1
Physics† 1 1
Mathematics 24 1 1 2 5 5 8 2
* Taken in Year 10 (2018) † IGCSE
GCSE / IGCSE stats. 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014 2013
Percentage A* - A / 9 - 7 52% 62% 47% 56% 61% 61% 65%
Percentage A* - B / 9 - 5 82% 87% 73% 80% 83% 87% 83%
Percentage A* - C / 9 - 4 93% 98% 88% 92% 96% 94% 95%
YEAR 10 & YEAR 9 students’ GCSE & IGCSE RESULTS 2019
number grades entries 9(*) 8(*/a) 7(a) 6(b) 5(b/c) 4(c) 3(d)
letter grades entries A* A B C D
Music† 25 18 7
English (Second Language)† 1 1
Spanish 2 1 1
Italian 1 1
† IGCSE
Destination of Leavers 2019
9 Royal Academy of Music 2 King’s College London
4 Guildhall School of Music & 1 Oxford University
Drama 1 Princeton University
3" Royal College of Music !"
1 Australian Conservatoire
3 Trinity Laban Conservatoire 1 Royal Conservatoire, Scotland
3 Royal Birmingham
ConservatoireFAQs and the applicant’s written
recommendation attached. We
require overseas applicants
to provide YouTube footage
or Sound Cloud recordings
of a recent performance for
When is the next Open Morning? consideration.
Our Open Mornings this year will
be Sunday 6th October 2019 and Auditions are held at the School
Saturday 1st February 2020 most Thursdays, and are generally
allocated on a first come first
What are the School fees? served basis.
The School fees for the academic
year 2019/20 are £26,748 (day) To whom should we send our
and £34,152 (boarding). However, child’s application and direct
all students accepted into the queries to?
School are means-tested so All applications are to be sent to
parents pay a contribution to the Registrar, Ms Karen Eldridge.
their fees according to their Her contact details are as follows:
financial circumstances.
Ms Karen Eldridge, School
How do I go about applying for a Registrar, The Purcell School,
place at the School? Aldenham Road, Bushey,
To be considered for a place at Hertfordshire, WD23 2TS
the School, you must first apply k.eldridge@purcell-school.org
for an audition by completing the
School’s application form. This can When is your closing date for
be found in the prospectus and applications?
on our website as a downloadable Applications are considered as
PDF. Applications can be received they come in, and there are many
by post or email. advantages in applying early
in the process. Candidates are
Postal Applications: The assessed in relation to their age
application form must be and potential at time of audition,
returned to the School Registrar so there is no advantage in
with a £35 application fee and a waiting to audition later in the
written recommendation from year.
the applicant’s instrumental
teacher(s). We ask that any Application deadline 28th
overseas candidates include February 2020: applications
evidence of a recent performance received by 28th February 2020
(DVD, YouTube link etc). Please will be guaranteed an audition,
make all cheques payable to ‘The provided that criteria for
Purcell School’. shortlisting are met.
Online Applications: Applications Later applications may be
can also be received by emailing considered, but remaining
the completed application audition spaces will be
form to the Registrar. To very limited and cannot be
submit an application online, guaranteed. Late applications
the £35 registration fee must will only be considered in very
be paid through the website exceptional circumstances.Can I come and have a look When is your intake?
around the School? Usually in September, but other
Tours of the School are given arrangements can sometimes be
as part of the audition process. made.
However, if you would like to
come for an informal visit prior Do you have any day students?
to application and are unable Yes. (Roughly 25% of all students)
to make either of our Open
Mornings, please get in touch with Do you have weekly boarders?
the PA to the Principal, Mrs Shirley Yes. Students can go home most
Clark, on s.clark@purcell-school. weekends, unless there are
org and we will arrange a time for rehearsals and/or concerts.
you to visit us.
How many students do you
What standard of playing are have?
you looking for? Around 180 students, (45% are
We do not have formal entry boys and 55% are girls).
criteria – every student is
different, and all students make How much instrumental tuition
progress at different stages. do students receive?
2-3 hours a week instrumental
As a rough guide, with very few tuition.
exceptions, students joining
our school will be playing at Can my child learn with a
approximately the following teacher outside of School?
minimum standard: Please see our Policy on External
Music Lessons on our website.
(Keyboard) Age 9-11: grade 6-8+
(Keyboard) Age 12-15: grade 8+ Do you accept students that play
only one instrument?
(Strings) Age 9-11: Grade 5-7+ Although most students play two
(Strings) Age 12-15: Grade 7+ or more (including composition),
around one in ten students play
Wind, brass, harp, viola, double one instrument only.
bass and percussion players often
begin their instruments at an How much time do students
older age, and may be offered a have to practice?
place on potential if they have a 3-6 hours/day, based on their age.
less advanced playing level.
Do you have a Jazz department?
At Sixth Form we are looking for Yes. We have a strong and well
students ready to apply for top established Jazz department with
conservatoires and universities at first study jazz students playing
the start of year 13. instruments ranging from jazz
piano to jazz bass.
From what age do you accept
students? Do you accept students with
We accept students from Year special educational needs?
6 (age 10) through to the Sixth Yes, as long as they are able
Form (age 16+). New students to cope with our demanding
can enter the school in all years programme and the constraints
except Year 11 and Year 13. of the layout of our buildings.Open Mornings 2019/20
Sunday 6th October 2019, 9:00am – 1:00pm
Saturday 1st February 2020, 9:00am – 1:00pm
Twice a year The Purcell To book a place on one of
School opens its doors to our open mornings, please
prospective students and register your interest at www.
parents, welcoming them to purcell-school.org/open-
meet staff and students, take mornings.
in the campus and facilities,
and enjoy the outstanding If you have any questions,
music-making that contact the School’s Registrar,
characterises the School. Ms Karen Eldridge, on
k.eldridge@purcell-school.org.
Visitors are able to meet with
the Principal, the Director of Please be aware that all
Music and the Heads of the places are means-tested,
Music Departments. They and that Scholarships of up
will be taken on a tour of the to 100% are available under
School, guided by current the Government’s Music and
students, visit our recording Dance Scheme.
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. ‘My daughter has blossomed in
an environment that has
nurtured her, both musically
and personally... to say she
is happy at school is an
understatement.’
Purcell ParentConcerts
A great way to really experience The Purcell School is to come to one
of our concerts. We put on over 150 performances each year, and
would be delighted if you could join us at one of our forthcoming
events.
Highlights 2019 / 20
Wed 16th October 2019, 7:30pm Sun 12th January 2020, 7:30pm
DARKNESS ILLUMINATED MILTON COURT EVENING
St. John’s Church, Smith Square, RECITAL
Westminster, London SW1P 3HA 1 Milton Street, London EC2Y 9BH
Sun 20th October 2019, 3pm Tues 28th January 2020, 1pm
SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA CHAMBER ENSEMBLES AT ST.
Watford Colosseum, MARTIN-IN-THE-FIELDS
Rickmansworth Road, Watford Trafalgar Square, Charing Cross,
WD17 3JN London WC2N 4JJ
Mon 25th November 2019, Sun 1st March 2020, 11am, 1pm,
7:30pm 3pm and 7:30pm
WIGMORE HALL CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND
36 Wigmore Street, London W1U INSPIRATION OF OLIVER
2BP KNUSSEN
The Purcell Room (11am, 1pm
Sun 8th December 2019, 6:30pm and 3pm) and Queen Elizabeth
CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT Hall (7:30pm), Southbank Centre,
St James’ Church, High Street, Belvedere Road, Lambeth,
Bushey WD23 1BD London SE1 8XX
For booking information, visit www.purcell-school.org/concert-diary or
contact the Concerts Department on concerts@purcell-school.org and
01923 311109.
To receive the full Events Guide and updates by email, please
send your full contact details to publicity@purcell-school.orgThe Purcell School
Aldenham Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire WD23 2TS
Telephone: 01923 331100
Email: info@purcell-school.org
www.purcell-school.orgYou can also read
