Music

Music has a long and fine tradition at Charterhouse. Ralph Vaughan Williams was a pupil in the School’s early days in Godalming.

Around half of our pupils have music lessons, and many participate in other musical activities, like House Singing, or the Chapel choirs, as well as numerous concerts covering a range of genres from classical and choral to pop and rock.

Some pupils arrive with years of musical experience; others are just starting out on their journey of musical exploration.

Whatever your level, Charterhouse provides many opportunities to embrace a love of music, hone your talents and broaden your musical interests.

With expert tuition, diverse ensembles, and a rich programme of performance opportunities, from orchestras and jazz bands to a cappella, choir and chamber music, every pupil can explore their potential and find their voice.

In recent years, pupils have gone on to become professional musicians and studied music at university or music college, but, more importantly, a huge number of Carthusians have retained a lifelong love of music.

The depth and breadth of musical ability at Charterhouse is remarkable and was beautifully demonstrated throughout the (Cadogan Hall) concert. I first heard Beethoven's Ninth sixty years ago at a large open-air concert in Santander conducted by Raphael Frubeck de Burgos. The pleasure I felt last night matched that at Santander, such was the excellence of last night's performance.

An Old Carthusian

The Sound of Music

There are regular performance opportunities for pupils of all standards, whether beginner or advanced, and pupils regularly perform in Lunchtime Concerts, as well as more substantial Evening Recitals. Strong emphasis is placed on ensemble playing, where teamwork and social interaction are so well nurtured, and there are a host of choirs and instrumental ensembles. Whatever the musical interest of pupils, Charterhouse offers a stimulating environment to help them reach their potential.