Music is part of the creative landscape of our schools, but feeds into so much more – from academic skills to wellbeing, confidence and community spirit. We talk to two schools that passionately believe in its transformative power
The Duke of York’s Royal Military School
At The Duke of York’s Royal Military School (DOYRMS) in Kent, music is considered to be much more than a subject or hobby. It is a defining part of school life that grows with every student and supports their interests and ambitions. From their first day, ‘Dukies’ are encouraged to explore and express themselves through music, with a programme designed to evolve in a way that matches their individual aspirations.
With exceptional facilities and a deep belief in the power of performance, the school says that music remains a vibrant and intrinsic part of education, bringing academic, social, and creative benefits to all young people. From the outset, music is integrated as a natural and everyday part of school life. Every Year 7 student receives free music lessons, offering a foundation for musical discovery and building confidence.
As students move through the Senior school, the music programme becomes more specialised. Options range from tailored tuition and ensemble opportunities to carefully designed performance pathways for those who wish to develop their talent and take it to a higher level.
The school’s Performing Arts Centre stands at the heart of this creative journey. The centre provides a professional stage for concerts, recitals, and the school’s much anticipated annual musical. These events bring together students from across year groups, whether they study music formally or simply wish to take part in a shared creative experience. While this supports a vibrant musical life, so does the school Chapel – home to whole-school weekly hymn practice and to the Chapel Choir.
Music facilities extend beyond classroom and other formal spaces. Keyboards and instruments are available in every boarding house and also in the school’s coffee shop for impromptu performances. This clever addition in social spaces means that studentscan practise or perform at any time. This culture of everyday music making reflects the school’s belief that creativity should be encouraged and be accessible to all.
One important aspect of life at Duke of York’s is the tradition of a Military Marching Band, which remains a source of great pride. Performing regularly at school and community events – as well as prestigious events such as the King’s Coronation – the band represents the discipline, teamwork, and heritage that underpin the school’s history and ethos. Through these performances, students not only develop musicianship but also a deep sense of service and connection to the wider community.
“Music enriches every aspect of life at DOYRMS. It builds confidence, fosters teamwork, and brings joy to our community,” says Principal Alex Foreman. “From the classroom to the stage, and everywhere in between, music truly matters here.”
The Duke of York’s Royal Military School doyrms.com
Malvern College
At Malvern College, the focus is on education beyond academics. Malvern considers it vital to develop not only IQ, but also EQ (emotional intelligence) and CQ (cultural intelligence). The team say that music is a perfect reflection of why this approach is important. Under the leadership of recently arrived Director of Music, James Ramm, it is making a big impact on students and the whole school community.
Malvern College says that learning music sharpens IQ. It also builds focus, discipline and creativity – whether mastering an instrument, composing, or experimenting with digital recording. But music also does something more profound in developing students’ emotional skills (EQ). Playing or singing together demands empathy, listening and respect. Director of Music James Ramm says is not about being the loudest voice but about finding balance and harmony within a group – life skills every bit as valuable as the ability to solve an equation or compose an essay.
Cultural understanding (CQ) is also seen as a vital part of the mix. Malvern is a diverse, global boarding community, where pupils bring different backgrounds, cultures and perspectives. The team here believe music is one of the most powerful ways of bridging those cultural differences. A choir, jazz group or Live Lounge performance is not just a showcase of talent, but an expression of cultural exchange and shared experience. In a world that can sometimes feel divided, this is giving students something in common and something to celebrate.
While music education has been in decline across the UK, it remains a central part of school life here in the Malvern Hills. “We believe music is not an optional extra, but a vital thread in building confidence, wellbeing and community. Music helps young people find their voice and just as importantly, to listen to others. At a time when the world feels increasingly polarised, those are lessons that extend far beyond the classroom,” says James Ramm.
This ethos is seen in action every day, he adds. From informal ‘Live Lounge’ sets at The Grub café, where pupils build confidence in a relaxed setting, to large-scale showcases such as the Concerto Concert, the aim is to provide rich opportunities for every kind of musician.
As an All-Steinway School, Malvern also ensures pupils who want to take their musical ambitions further have access to the very best instruments, matching their persistence and enthusiasm with world-class resources and tuition. That commitment is now reflected in the transformation of the Music School into a vibrant new space, with specialist teaching and rehearsal rooms, a purpose-built performance area, and a state-of-the-art digital recording studio.
Whether a pupil is picking up an instrument for the first time or preparing for conservatoire, this setting is designed to nurture talent. Initiatives like the Young Malvern Musician of the Year competition highlight the school’s commitment to both excellence and inclusion. The event inspires beginners and advanced performers alike to share their music, says James Ramm.
This event also supports the school’s boarding ethos. When young people are living and learning together, community spirit is vitally important. Music at Malvern provides shared performance opportunities and a sense of connection – both of which support young people’s confidence, resilience and sense of belonging.
Malvern College malverncollege.org.uk
Further reading: Music maker – the work of Restore the Music
You may also like...
