Peripatetic lessons on offer include orchestral brass and band instruments; drum kit and orchestral percussion; classical, electric, acoustic, and bass guitars; orchestral strings; orchestral woodwind, and saxophone; piano and harpsichord, plus singing lessons in all styles. The peripatetic teachers teach across both Junior and Senior School sites which provides good continuity for the many children learning to play an instrument. Pupils learning instruments are expected to make the most of opportunities on offer to enhance their development.

These practices prepare pupils for the wide array of performance opportunities available to them. Jazz nights in the Newsom Hall, Termly Concerts at St James’ and St Basil’s Church and Newcastle Cathedral, fortnightly Live for Five recitals in the Lumsden Hall, performing arts productions, music competitions, performances for the local community, pupils are even asked to perform at various school events such as prize giving events or open mornings. 

There are many significant benefits to studying, performing and creating music including:

• accelerated cognitive development and improved metacognition
• improved personal mental health, including reduced levels of stress and anxiety
• fostering of teamwork, creative and social skills
• developing self-discipline, time management and critical thinking ability.