Ardingly’s outstanding Music Department provides a huge variety of opportunities for students of all musical abilities.

Under the leadership of our talented team of six full-time staff, two administrators and 25 visiting music teachers, students receive tuition in a wide range of instruments, including those from the string, brass, woodwind, percussion, keyboard and vocal families. Students develop their musical talents and work towards graded examinations.

The Music Department is based in the purpose-built Music School, which includes the Recital Room, percussion and ensemble room, music classroom, a music library, ICT suite, recording studio and 12 teaching and practice rooms.

Opportunities to Perform

At Ardingly College, students enjoy a rich variety of performance opportunities, with over 30 choirs, ensembles, and instrumental groups available to suit all musical interests and abilities. From first-time performers to seasoned musicians, everyone is encouraged to grow in confidence through regular informal concerts held in a supportive environment.

Each year, the Music Department stages approximately 60 concert events, ranging from small recitals to large-scale productions. Major highlights include the much-anticipated summer Cabaret event, our annual Hello Yellow fundraising concert, the Anything But Classical café concert, and high-profile performances at prestigious venues such as Westminster Abbey and Sinfonia Smith Square. Termly on-campus concerts celebrate the full scope of our students’ musical achievements.
Students also benefit from unforgettable international tour experiences, with recent destinations including France, Belgium, Holland and Malta—combining cultural enrichment with the chance to perform on a global stage.

Music in the College Community

All pupils across the College take part in a weekly congregational singing session, preparing for College chapel services and contributing to the wider community through music.
This vibrant musical culture feeds directly into the House Song and House Ensemble competitions, which are among the highlights of the school calendar. These events bring the whole College together, with pupils from every House participating enthusiastically.
The annual Ardingly College Young Musician of the Year competition, divided into different age categories, provides our most talented musicians with an opportunity to showcase their individual skills and musical achievements.

A huge variety of opportunities

Academic Music

Scholarships

Musical Enrichment

Contemporary Music

Explore more at Ardingly