Music Scholarship

At SCHS, we seek girls who show exceptional talent or potential in music – whether as instrumentalists, singers, or both. Our Music Scholars benefit from exclusive participation in concerts, workshops, and all SCHS music events, which include:

• Termly ensemble concerts

• Regular soloist recitals, both formal and informal (including a dedicated Scholars’ Concert)

• Annual Evensong with Oxford and Cambridge Colleges

• Collaborations with the Royal Opera House and other professional companies

• Talks and workshops with renowned performers, composers, and conductors

• Annual scholars trips to concerts, operas and musicals

In addition to nurturing their musical talent, our Music Scholars serve as role models, inspiring others by leading House Music competitions, hosting choral clubs, and delivering special assemblies.

Music Scholars play a vital role in the school’s music life and are expected to:

• Participate in all music activities, including concerts, clubs, tours, and competitions

• Regularly engage with the Music Department for their development

• Achieve Grade 8 or beyond in at least one instrument by Year 13

• Be role models in the music community, demonstrating hard work and musicianship

• Attend Scholars’ meetings, contribute to school music-making, and represent SCHS at Open Days

Music facilities include: 

• Individual practice rooms

• Music technology suite

• Wide range of instruments, including an organ

• Two performance spaces with professional lighting and sound systems

Applicants should be of Grade 4 standard or higher in one instrument or voice. A second instrument (or voice) is desirable but not essential.
Candidates are expected to have performed in ensembles and sung in choirs. All candidates should submit:

• Details of all relevant qualifications (either achieved or currently studying).

• A personal statement, written by the candidate, of no more than 300 words

• A written reference from their instrumental and/or classroom Music teacher

• Relevant evidence of music/performances outside of school (e.g. programmes, newspaper articles etc.)

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend a scholarship audition, lasting no more than 20 minutes.

What will happen in your scholarship audition?

• You will perform a programme which demonstrates your musical ability on one or more instrument(s) or voice. You only need to perform one piece per instrument/voice. Your programme should not last more than five minutes. You will be given a 15-minute warm-up, prior to your audition.

• IMPORTANT: Should you be shortlisted, you will be asked to state what your audition pieces will be, and whether you require an accompanist. An accompanist will be provided for those who require it, and there will be time allocated for rehearsal prior to the audition.

• You will complete a sight-reading test on your first instrument, and aural tests of approximately Grade 5 standard.

• Finally, there will be a short discussion about your musical interests, motivation and ambitions. There is no need to prepare for this; it is our opportunity to get to know you as a musician, and your opportunity to ask us any questions you might have.

The auditions take place in front of the Director of Music and Head of Academic Music.

Candidates will be of Grade 6 or higher in one instrument or voice. A second instrument or voice is desirable. Candidates are expected to have performed in ensembles and sung in choirs. All candidates should submit:

• Details of all relevant qualifications (either achieved or currently studying).

• A written reference from their instrumental and/or classroom Music teacher.

• Where relevant, evidence of music/performances outside of school (e.g. programmes, newspaper articles etc.)

External candidates should also submit:

• GCSE Music predicted grade and mock examination result.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a scholarship audition, which will last no more than 20 minutes.  

What will happen in your scholarship audition?

• You should prepare at least two contrasting pieces to perform (these can be on different instruments/voice). You may perform more than two pieces, but your recital should last no longer than 8 minutes. You will be given a 15-minute warm-up, prior to your audition.

• IMPORTANT: Should you be shortlisted, you will be asked to state what your audition pieces will be, and whether you require an accompanist. An accompanist will be provided for those who require it, and there will be time allocated for rehearsal prior to the audition.

• You will then complete some short aural tests of approximately Grade 7 standard, and sight-reading appropriate to your instrument/voice.

• Finally, there will be a short discussion about your musical interests, motivation and ambitions. There is no need to prepare for this; it is our opportunity to get to know you as a musician, and your opportunity to ask us any questions you might have.

The auditions take place in front of the Director of Music, Head of Academic Music and an external assessor.

Future Music Scholars Breakfast: Thursday 21 May 2026

Application Deadline: Tuesday 3 November 2026

Shortlisted Candidates Live Audition: Thursday 7 January 2027 (shortlisted candidates will perform, take some tests, and engage in an informal discussion).