Class music is taught to every girl in the school twice a week. Girls explore musical styles from all over the world and from all periods of history. They are encouraged to listen critically, to analyse and to express their own thoughts on music. Compositional techniques, musical form, the social context of music, musical performance and traditions and recording techniques are introduced into the curriculum throughout the year. Individual, group and class composition can then put all these musical ideas into practice. Practical musicianship is encouraged through the singing of a wide variety of songs from all traditions. These form the basis of games and exercises to develop core musical skills, such as a sense of rhythm and pitch. 

All lessons take place in the music studio, especially built for the purpose. The large space allows girls to develop, rehearse and perform their musical ideas. Keyboards, untuned and tuned percussion, a high-quality sound system, an interactive Smartboard, recording equipment and a piano are in constant use,not just for the music curriculum but also for the many class assemblies and traditional festivals for which the girls often rehearse and perform a piece.

Classroom music is just one part of the lively musical experience to be had at Bute House. Please read the sections on Ensembles and Music Tuition to find out more.

Listen to Bute House performances

Bute House Senior Choir, 'Bute Forever'
poem by Camilla Thompsell, music by Ash Charles & Nik Ammar

Bute House Senior Choir, 'Let There Be Peace on Earth'
by Cy Miller 

Cello, 'Waltz' from 'Sleeping Beauty' by Tchaikovsky

Clarinet, '5 Bagatelles, No 2 Romance' by Gerald Finzi

Trumpet, from 'West Side Story" by Bernstein

Vocal, 'Danny Boy'