University College School

Music at UCS
UCS has a proud musical tradition. We believe that music, of all kinds, makes a unique contribution to the life of the school, and to the educational experience of our students (whether they are themselves musicians, or not).

We run choirs, a symphony orchestra, a chamber orchestra, wind, string and brass ensembles, a barber shop group, jazz ensembles, a salsa band, rock groups and much more. We are keen to encourage participation from pupils of every age and every standard, whether or not they learn their instrument at school.

The approach that we take to music at UCS is lively and inclusive, and encourages students to achieve the very highest standards in musical understanding and performance.

We are keen that the opportunity for a UCS musical education should be open to as many musically talented children as possible, regardless of their background.

It is for this reason that we offer Entrance Awards in Music.

These awards are available by competitive audition to boys and girls who wish to enter UCS Senior School at Year 7 (11+), Year 9 (13+) or Year 12 (16+), and to all existing UCS students in these age-groups who wish to be considered.

What is a Music Award?

A Standard Music Award at UCS will entitle the holder to a reduction in the annual school tuition fee of between 10% and 25%. The precise value will depend upon the standard of applicants and, therefore, the competition in any one year.

In addition to this, parents of applicants may ask to be considered for a Supplementary Music Award. This will involve a test of parental means. A Supplementary Award may raise the value of a Music Award as high as 100% of the annual tuition fee. The difference in value between a Standard Award and a Supplementary Award will depend upon the financial need of the family concerned, as determined through a UCS means test.

All Music Awards at UCS (whether Standard or Supplementary) entitle the holder to free instrumental tuition at school on an instrument (including voice) of the candidate's choice.

Standard Music Awards remain in place throughout a student's time at UCS Senior School. The means-tested element of a Supplementary Award is subject to annual review (in common with all other means-tested fee assistance at UCS) in order to take account of any changes in family circumstances that have taken place since the award was granted.

How are Music Awards given?

Music Awards involve competitive auditions. Applicants will be required to play two contrasting pieces of their own choice on a main instrument or voice. Competition is often quite strong. We expect a minimum of Grade V at 11+, Grade VI at age 12-13 years, and Grade VIII at 16+. The age of younger candidates will be taken into consideration. There will be ear tests, sight reading and an interview. Demonstration of ability on a second instrument, or as a singer, will be welcomed. 

The auditions are conducted by the UCS Music Department with the presence and advice of an external assessor to ensure complete fairness.

The final decisions are dependent not only upon candidates' musicality, but also upon a judgement of the contribution that they will be able and willing to make to the musical life of the school.

Are there any other conditions for Music Awards?

Music Awards will only be made to candidates who have, separately, satisfied the Headmaster of their academic and personal suitability for a UCS education, judged by the school's standard admissions procedures.

The holders of Music Awards are required to play a full part in the musical life of the school throughout their years at UCS. Failure to do so could lead to the withdrawal of the Award.

The application process and the timing of auditions

Applications are welcomed from students seeking entry to UCS through the standard procedures for admission in Year 7, Year 9 or Year 12. Details of these admissions procedures can be found on our website or from the UCS Admissions Secretary.

Applications are equally welcome from students currently in Year 6 at the UCS Junior Branch or in Years 8 or 11 at the Senior School.

In order to apply for a Music Award, an Application Form must be completed. These may be obtained below or from the Music Administrator (020 7433 2315). It is simple to indicate on the Application Form that you would like to be considered for a Supplementary Award. In this case, further Financial Disclosure Forms will be forwarded to you. These are treated in complete confidence by the UCS Bursary Department.

Candidates currently in Year 11, applying for an Award in Year 12 should expect to complete the Application Form before November of Year 11. Auditions for 2010 entry will be held 23 and 24 November 2009.

Candidates currently in Years 6 or 8, applying for Awards in Years 7 or 9 should expect to complete the Application Form in January. Auditions will normally be held in early February.   For 2010 entry, auditions will be held 3 and 4 February 2010. 

Music Award Information Evening

The UCS Music Department holds an Information Evening every Autumn where families and candidates can find out more about music at UCS, and can pick up further information and advice about applying for Music Awards.  The next Open Evening is Monday, 5 October 2009 at 5 pm in the Music School.  Please ring 020 7433 2315 for more information. 

Application Form 16+

Application Form 11+ and 13+

2010 Music Award Information