Music, Drama or Performing Arts scholarships for pupils who demonstrate both disciplines are awarded to highly promising and enthusiastic pupils who contribute to the life of the school through singing, playing the piano or an orchestral instrument and / or outstanding participation in school theatre productions.
In addition to their commitments at school, Music scholars are expected to practise at home on a regular basis, and this requires significant support and input from their parents. In addition to practical skills, pupils should work independently to gain a good understanding of musical genres and styles.
Drama scholars should demonstrate they can use role play, demonstrate improvisation skills, show good stage presence and characterisation and perform from play script.
Many scholars are involved with music ensembles or drama troupes outside of school.
Music, Drama or Performing Art Scholarships are open to applicants from within or outside the School and are awarded on merit and potential.
Music scholars will be closely supported by the Director of Music and encouraged to perform regularly at concerts, as well as be members of suitable musical ensembles. Performance ethos, supporting the department where possible and setting an example to younger musicians are highly desirable. They will be expected to prioritise music in their busy schedules and wherever clashes may occur. The Director of Music will liaise closely with both pupil and parents in order to support them in pursuing a broad and rewarding music education.
Where appropriate, they may be encouraged to have private tuition in music theory for a term or two with one of our peripatetic staff in order to attain Grade V theory. If they wish to apply for a scholarship at a senior school then general interview preparation can be provided.
As a very rough guide, music candidates should be at approximately Grade 3 standard in their first instrument and Grade 1 in any second instrument. They will be asked to play one piece on both their first and second instrument as well as to be prepared to sing a suitable song.
Candidates should also be prepared for:
Scales and arpeggios – of their current standard
Sight reading test – of their current standard
Aural tests
The audition is followed by an interview with the Head of Performing Arts / Director of Music.
Candidates should present a portfolio demonstrating their involvement in previous music productions, any grades achieved, and evidence of musical performance attendance.
Drama scholars will have access to speech and drama tuition including LAMDA examinations and will be supported with preparation for future schools scholarship applications. They will be strongly encouraged to audition for lead roles within our Upper School on Stage productions and be expected to set an example for other members of the cast and younger aspiring actors.
Drama candidates should perform as follows:
A monologue from memory. Candidates may also be asked to follow directions and adjust their performance. The audition will be followed by an interview with the Faculty Head of Performing Arts and the Head of Drama. Candidates should present a portfolio demonstrating their involvement in previous theatre productions, any grades achieved, and evidence of theatre attendance.
Candidates will be asked to present a sung performance or perform a piece on their chosen instrument (or both, should they wish to do so) and one monologue.
They will have an interview with the Director of Music and/or Head of Drama and should present a portfolio to showcase their performing arts achievements, performances and productions.
For any further information, or if you have any questions, please contact Dr Rowan Evans on 01395 272148 or email rowan.evans@stpetersprepschool.co.uk.
