Individual music lessons on any orchestral instrument, as well as piano, organ, percussion, guitar, clarsach and singing, are available in school and are provided by expert instructors who come into school on a part-time basis. Lessons are arranged on a rota basis for students in the Prep School and the Middle School (13-15) and during private study periods for the Sixth Form, so disruption to academic studies is therefore kept to a minimum.

Weekly lessons are arranged mutually between students and teacher, with Prep School pupils also noting lessons down in their music lesson diaries. Any clashes are usually resolved quite easily.

Rehearsals generally take place in times not used by academic lessons and these groups often have priority over other school activities. Apart from the enjoyment of being a part of a large team, such groups are recognised by many people, including universities, as demonstrating commitment, concentration, discipline and teamwork. 

The Concert Choir is a large mixed choir of around 120 voices, open to all in the 3rd Form (13+ students) and above. No audition is necessary. The choir performs in two concerts each year, in November and March, which are usually held in St Cuthbert’s Church, in Edinburgh.

The Chapel Choir is open to all students by audition. It is the busiest group in the school, rehearsing three times a week and performing to a very high standard, including tours, cathedral services and recordings. The Chapel Choir performs at all Sunday services, the Carol Service and all school concerts. Recent tours have included Canada, Normandy, Ireland, the Czech Republic, North America, Austria, Germany, Italy and Hong Kong.

The Symphony Orchestra is designed for the more experienced player and membership is by invitation.

In addition to these large ensembles, we run any number of smaller ensembles and chamber groups which come into and out of existence depending on the musicians we have available in any given term. These almost always include String Ensemble and Jazz Band, and often include Flute Group, Brass Group, Percussion Group, String Quartets, Piano Trios, Wind Ensembles, and various custom-made combinations of our own devising.

The school frequently enters students for graded Music Examinations with the Associated Board and Trinity College, and has a very successful record over recent years. Some students thrive on exams while others find themselves over-pressured. The amount of work required is considerable and the decision to enter a student is usually made by the student and teacher in consultation. 

Students may also receive individual tuition in music theory and aural training.  

Music is taught as an academic subject throughout the school. All pupils in the Prep School have two music classes each week and the subject is also part of the 3rd Form (13+) curriculum. It is available in the Middle School (13=15) at GCSE, and in the Sixth Form at A Level and International Baccalaureate (IB).