Warwick Schools Foundation on celebrating music

Stuart Thompson, Executive Music Lead at Warwick Schools Foundation, on the excitement of a role in a place where music and culture are celebrated

Beginning a new job is always exciting adventure and my transition from being a Senior Deputy Head in Leicestershire to taking on a newly created role –Executive Music Lead at Warwick Schools Foundation – was no exception. Warwick is a town steeped in history and culture. Its vibrant arts scene and its real sense of community has meant that, from the moment I arrived, I knew I was stepping into a world where the power of music was not only acknowledged but truly celebrated. This was evident in the job description, which resonated strongly with me: ‘Access to high-quality music-making opportunities is an essential ingredient in the formation of young people’s lives’.

What makes this role special is its truly philanthropic nature. There is a genuine ambition to build a connected local, national and global community, to share our wonderful facilities widely and to open up the fantastic opportunities provided for our students across the local community. There is a true emphasis on partnerships. We all know that music education thrives when it is woven into the fabric of a community. As much of my time so far has been spent building relationships with stakeholders outside of the Foundation as with the five Directors of Music and their respective music departments inside.

“Music goes beyond notes and scales; it instils discipline, teamwork and creativity and brings with it the opportunities to explore wider culture”

A recent initiative here has been the highly successful formation of ‘Warwick – A Singing Town’. In partnership with local schools in the CV34 postcode area, this provides a team of choral entrepreneurs who enthuse pupils in these schools and build a love of singing. Secondly, there’s a partnership with colleagues from the Priory Medical Centre and local social prescribing team connecting people to existing choirs and setting up new ones where required. Finally, there’s a partnership with other local choral groups, raising awareness and joining together.

We are also very fortunate to have The Orchestra of the Swan in residence with us – my office is beside theirs on our campus. It has been fascinating to hear first-hand the highs and lows of running a professional chamber orchestra and this partnership provides wonderful opportunities for pupils and residents. For the Swan’s first concert here this autumn, we will be joined by pupils from local primary schools for an open rehearsal of the orchestra. We also have the first cohort of students from our three senior schools learning the art of conducting with Rebecca Miller – including directing a group of musicians from the Swan. There’s also the launch of Swan Youth Orchestra for school-age musicians in the Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull music hubs.

Music goes beyond notes and scales; it instils discipline, teamwork and creativity and brings with it the opportunities to explore wider culture. It fosters a deep sense of belonging and self-expression and has a significant, positive impact on psychological wellbeing. My time in my new role has already been a harmonious adventure, where every note played, every partnership forged, and every student inspired reminds me of the incredible potential that music holds. The future for Warwick’s musical community shines brightly, and I’m so excited to be playing my part in shaping this.

Warwick Schools Foundation warwickschoolsfoundation.co.uk