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Instrumental lessons

Wind Band

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Pipe Band

Band Competition

At the end of every summer term since 1984 (and, more recently, on the last day), a day-long Band Competition is held. Pupils in each First and Second Year practical class practice during music lessons to play three songs, and then finally face the ordeal of playing before the rest of the school. Teachers from outside the music department then adjudicate, and winners are chosen from both years. Between the First Year contest in the morning and the Second Year contest in the afternoon, groups of pupils from older years play noncompetitively, and in some years groups of teachers have entertained the pupils. First and Second Year tunes tend to be chosen both from the world of modern pop music and, in a more eclectic fashion, from music dating back to the 1960s. Older years tend to favour more rock and indie music. Teacher groups usually give comedy performances.

While practising for the band competition can be hard work, it encourages musical activity, and, on Band Competition Day, a lot of enjoyment is had by all.