Music

 

The Music Department at Colchester Royal Grammar School is for everyone.  Our intent is to facilitate a broad and diverse curriculum supported by a host of extra-curricular ensembles which cater for musicians at various stages of their development. We aim to nurture a love of Music through quality teaching, led by a dedicated team of music specialists. Music is at the heart of our school culture and we provide many opportunities for young musicians to get involved including termly concerts; school productions and music tours. Our 'flagship' ensembles include our Orchestra and Choir, which continue to thrive and regularly perform both in school and at various external venues. In Summer 2025, 80 of our musicians went on tour to Barcelona.

All students will develop their performing, composing and appraising skills throughout their time here and we place great emphasis on a shared musical vocabulary and musical literacy. From their first weekly lessons in Year 7 (1.5 hrs per week), to their final A Level lesson, they build upon prior skills knowledge and understanding and learn the value of a comprehensive music education is not all about summative grades, but the experiences that come with being part of a thriving and supportive musical community.

 

Specialist Teachers

We are proud to be able to offer our students every possible opportunity for instrumental and vocal learning outside the classroom music curriculum. Lessons are arranged for students through Essex Music Service tutors, taking place throughout the school day in the many teaching rooms in Elyanore House.

The Music Department offers support and encouragement to students attending these lessons and monitors attendance weekly. We aim to make the experience as rewarding as possible for students and to make sure parents receive value for money. Students are expected to play their part by making every effort to keep organised and practise regularly. They are also encouraged to extend their experience by joining one or more of our ensemble groups and takin part in the frequent performance opportunities that arise throughout the school year.

The School’s association for parents and friends, CRGSA, have been very supportive in providing funding for large instruments and AV equipment.

The school is pleased to act as an examination centre for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and tutors also arrange for students to be entered for Trinity Guildhall and Rock School exams where appropriate.

 

GCSE Music

We teach the Edexcel 9-1 GCSE Music Course and much of the content builds on the strong foundations from Years 7-9. Students develop their performing, composing and listening/appraising skills over two years.

A level Music

We teach the Eduqas A level Music course, which builds on the knowledge and skill-base of GCSE, progressing to more advanced composition, performance, and score analysis. Having an A level in Music is not just desirable for a Music-related degree. The critical thinking and creativity support students in a wide variety of courses and careers.

 

To keep up to date with the latest performances from all our ensembles, follow CRGS Music on YouTube

 Our concerts and productions are open to the public. You can purchase tickets via our box office here.