Music at BGS
Music is woven into the fabric of life at Bury Grammar School, enriching every facet of our educational experience.
From spirited performances in our assemblies, to captivating contributions at community events, and a multitude of dazzling concerts that grace our school calendar, music permeates our daily life.
The Music Department at Bury Grammar School welcomes all individuals, regardless of their musical background or preferred genre, nurturing their unique musical journeys. Our commitment is unwavering, as we strive to unlock the potential of each and every pupil, regardless of their skill level. We rally the school community to support and empower talented musicians, fostering an environment of diversity and adaptability, exemplified by our diverse and stimulating music enrichment programme, both within and beyond our school buildings.
Our collective mission within the Music Department is to inspire, all through the power of music and provide avenues for every pupil to flourish and develop. With a variety of choirs, orchestras and ensembles to join and opportunities to master a wide range of musical instruments, we guide every pupil toward the realisation of their musical potential, nurturing a lifelong love for music and offering chances to compete at local, regional, and national levels. For example the ABRSM and Trinity and LCM examinations, Orchestra Day, AJIS (Association of Junior Independent Schools) Choral Festival, Rotary Music Competition, National Children's Orchestra, National Youth Band, Hallè Choirs and orchestras.
From the beginning of the day to the closing hours of the evening, the Music Departments hum with the resonant melodies of pupils rehearsing, composing, and perfecting their craft. Our extensive range of enrichment opportunities offers experiences that are not only fulfilling but also joyful for all.
Even our youngest pupils in Kindergarten are given the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of classroom and enrichment music activities. In Infants the opportunities continue to grow, with Year 1 and Year 2 Strings, Choir from Year 1 onwards, and Buzz Club. Juniors are offered various Choirs, Rock Band, Ukulele Ensemble, Trombone Club, Woodwind Ensemble, BGSBeats and String Orchestra.
Musical performances begin in Year 1, age 5, where parents and pupils are invited to enjoy the delights of our young musicians. One to one instrument lessons are available at the age of five, Year 1 and these can continue right through Sixth Form.
Musical concerts and shows are common place in our Primary Division, Seniors and Sixth Form. You can find out a little more about our annual school productions here:
At Bury Grammar School we compete at local, regional and national levels.
In our Sixth Form, music enjoys a distinguished status at Bury Grammar School. We provide enrichment opportunities for all students to ensure that even those who do not opt to study music at A Level can continue their musical and creative journey. For more advanced musicians, we offer high-level performance opportunities, allowing them to reach for greater musical heights.
There are so many ways to become involved, participate, and enjoy music at BGS. Look out for our Ukulele Club, Lads' Vocals or attend a workshop at the Hallè with the inspirational vocal specialist and Hallè Youth Choir Director, join our Symphony Orchestra, Concert Band, Brass Ensemble, Cello Ensemble, String Orchestra, Festival Choir or BGSBeatz - the opportunities are endless!
We are a welcoming and inclusive music department, with aspirational, highly qualified staff who strive for musical excellence.
Miss R Britton, Director of Music (Enrichment & Performance)
''We are very proud of the role that music plays in the lives of our pupils and the impact it has had on our school community. Music plays a key role in our students' personal development and provides all of our students with many rich and varied opportunities and experiences. This engagement in music helps us to develop creative and confident students who go out into the wider community and impress others with their abilities.''
Mrs F Dickson, Music Teacher