Prospectus Session 2016-17

St Mary’s Music School
Prospectus
Session 2016-17
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

AIMS OF ST MARY’S MUSIC SCHOOL
St Mary’s Music School aims to provide the highest possible standard of education and training to exceptionally gifted
young musicians, in an inspiring, inclusive and supportive environment.
Aims
To provide specialist music education to instrumentalists and the choristers of St Mary’s Cathedral
To contribute to the cultural life of Scotland and internationally
To encourage applications from all pupils with the potential to benefit from a supportive specialist music school
education
To develop each pupil’s musical education to the full and to provide an excellent general education, offering flexibility
of timetabling sensitive to the needs of the individual
To encourage a high level of motivation, self-esteem and confidence, promoting balance, self-discipline and selfawareness
To prepare and support pupils socially, emotionally and professionally for the future
To promote engagement with the wider community and to extend in-depth learning in music to children from other
schools as part of our outreach programme
Kenneth Taylor
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

PRESIDENT OF ST MARY’S MUSIC SCHOOL
John Wallace CBE
VICE-PRESIDENTS
Dame Evelyn Glennie
Steven Isserlis CBE
Sir James MacMillan CBE
Jerzy Maksymiuk
Steven Osborne
DIRECTORS
CHAIRMAN William Moyes BSc, PhD
VICE CHAIRMAN Brian Smith MA, MLitt
Paul Baxter BMus
Graham Burnside WS, LLB, LTCL
James Cook BSc
Gavin Gemmell CBE, DUniv, CA
Brian Gill BA (Hons), LLB, LLM
Jacqui Low MA, FRSA
Neil Short BEd, MEd, MInstP
Pauline Taylor ACE, DipEd, MEd, CPsychol
Christian Torkington ACA, MA
HEADTEACHER
Kenneth Taylor BSc (Hons), PhD, PGCE, PGDip
DIRECTOR OF MUSIC
Paul Stubbings MusB (Hons), Prix d’Excellence (Amsterdam)
BURSAR AND COMPANY SECRETARY
Pamela Young
ORGANIST AND MASTER OF THE MUSIC, ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL
Duncan Ferguson MA, MSt, FRCO, LRSM
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR
William Conway
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

ACADEMIC STAFF
The Beatrice Huntington Teacher of Art*
Biology
Chemistry
Classical Studies
English
French
Geography and Modern Studies
German
History
Italian
Latin
Mathematics
Physical Education
Physics
Primary Teachers
PSE
Classroom Assistant
Religious and Moral Education
Support for Learning
Ruth Martin BA, ATCert, PGDip
Kerstin Holm HVT (Netherlands)
Janis Clinton BSc (Hons), PhD, PGCE
Alison M Horsey MA, CertEd
Caroline Snell BA, LLB, PGCE, RSA, DipTEFL
Heike Ulferts PGCE
Emma Wilson MA (Hons), PGCE
Gavin Frost BSc, PGDip Teaching
Heike Ulferts
Greg Murray MA (Hons), PGDE, PGCert Guidance
Elena Masoero MA, MPhil, PGCert
Elaine McFarlane BA (Merit), DipEd
Alison Horsey
Frances Findlay BSc, PGCE
Deryck Porteous BSc, DipEd
Ignacio Marquez Sanchez BSc, PGDip
Ian Cameron BSc, PGCE
Kenneth Taylor
Yvonne Jarron BSc, PGDE
Carrie Taylor, MA, PGDE, PGCert
Janis Clinton
Kerstin Holm
Heike Ulferts
Emma Wilson
Michele Macnab BSc (Hons)
Alison Horsey
Louise Watson MA (Hons), PGCE, PGC Guidance & ASL
* This post is sponsored by the William Syson Charitable Foundation
STAFF WITH ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Depute Headteacher
Frances Findlay
Principal Teachers Yvonne Jarron (P5 – S2)
Greg Murray (Guidance and Child Protection)
Heads of House
John Cameron/Heike Ulferts
Kerstin Holm/Deryck Porteous
Caroline Snell
Emma Wilson
Examination Officer
Frances Findlay
Assistant Examination Officer Kenneth Taylor
Music Librarian
John Cameron
Career Guidance Adviser Emma Wilson
Health & Safety Officer JoAnna Collings MA, MSc, PhD
Health & Safety Representatives Yvonne Jarron, Paul Stubbings
Child Protection Co-ordinator Greg Murray
PSE Co-ordinator
Greg Murray
SMC Co-ordinator
Eleanor Parker BMus, MMus, PGCE
School Chaplain
Kenneth Fleming
Boarding House Manager tbc
Depute Boarding House Manager Nadine McDonald SVQ Childcare & Education
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

MUSIC STAFF
Academic Music
Composition
Violin
Viola
Cello
Double Bass
Clarsach/Harp
Guitar
Piano
Organ
Harpsichord
Accordion
Recorder
Flute
Oboe
Clarinet
Bassoon
Horn
Saxophone
Trumpet
Trombone
Bagpipes
Percussion
Voice
Peter Backhouse BMus (Hons), FRCO (CHM), ARCM
Kathryn Jourdan BA (Hons), MEd, PhD, PGDipRNCM, PGCE,
Paul Stubbings (Director of Music)
Tom David Wilson MMus, GBSM (Hons), LTCL
Tom David Wilson
Ruth Crouch ProfCertRAM, ARAM
Francis Cummings MMus, PPRNCM, DRSAM, PGDip RNCM, PGCE
Andrea Gajic Dip Solo Perf,MMus Gnessin Moscow, ARCM
Katrina Lee BMus, MMus (Assistant to Andrea Gajic)
Gina McCormack ARCM
Claire Telford BMus (Hons), PGDip Perf
Monica Wilkinson MusB (Hons), PGCE
Jane Atkins Dip GSM
Kathryn Jourdan
Ruth Beauchamp BA, DipMus, Cert Adv Stud RCM, ARCM, LRSM, LTCL
Alison Wells BA, ARCM, LRAM, DipRAM, MMA, DMA
Adrian Bornet ARCM (Hons), LGSM
Helen MacLeod BMus (Hons)
Jamie Parker BMus, MMus
John Cameron (Head of Keyboard)
Richard Beauchamp Cert Adv Stud RCM, ARCM, LRSM, ATCL
John Bryden MA, ARCM, ARCO
Helena Buckmayer Dip Mus, PGDip AdvPerf
Duncan Ferguson
Chick Lyall BMus (Hons) (Jazz Piano)
Margaret Wakeford GRSM, LRAM
James Willshire BMus (Hons), MMus
Duncan Ferguson (Master of the Cathedral Music)
John Kitchen MBE, BMus, MA, PhD, LRAM, FRCO
Keith Dickson LBCA
Djordje Gajic Dip Solo Perf, MMus Gnessin Moscow
Vreni Fry Swiss Secondary School Teaching Qualification
John Kenny LRAM, ARAM
Lis Dooner DipRSAMD
Emma Roche BA (Hons), PGDip Perf
Joe Houghton BA (Hons), LRAM, DipRAM
Sally Day BMus, MMus
Jean Johnson BA Music Education, BA Music Performance
Pamela Turley ARCM, LRAM, CertEd
Jane Waters AGSM Perf & Teach, CertEd
Terence Johns ARAM
Richard Ingham BA (Hons), MSc, ARCM, LRAM, PGCE
Susan McKenzie ARCM, DipRCM
Bede Williams MMus Dist, BMus (Hons), FRSM
John Kenny
Andrew Frater
Iain Macdonald
Tom Gordon AGSMD (Jazz Drumming)
Tom Hunter BMus (Hons)
Margaret Aronson MA, FLCM, ARCM
Susan Hamilton
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

MUSIC STAFF (CONTINUED)
Jazz
Improvisation
Chamber Music & Strings Co-ordinator
Chamber Music
Junior Chamber Music
Senior Orchestra
Junior Sinfonia
Brass Ensembles
Wind Ensemble; Clarinet Choir
Alexander Technique
Dalcroze; Kodály
Senior Choir
Junior Choir
Performance Class Tutors
Accompanists
Practice Supervisors
Richard Ingham
Susan McKenzie
William Conway
Music Staff
Hilary Michael LRAM, BMus, PGDip (Early Music)
Anne Giles BEd LTCL
William Conway
Anne Giles, Tom David Wilson
John Kenny, Bede Williams
Sally Day
Robin St Clair MSTAT, MATI
Monica Wilkinson
Paul Stubbings
Susan Hamilton
John Bryden
Helena Buckmayer
John Cameron
Richard Beauchamp
John Bryden
Helena Buckmayer
John Cameron
Margaret Wakeford
Sandie Bornet ARCM
Vreni Fry
Anne Giles
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

INSTRUMENTALISTS
St Mary’s Music School aims to provide a first-class, well-rounded music education.
Auditions are held three times a year, in October/November, January/February and April. Applications may be
submitted at any point during the session but should be received at the latest two weeks prior to audition. See the
Application for an Instrumental Place form for further details. Advisory auditions are arranged throughout the year
on a monthly basis and are available for parents unsure whether or not their child would benefit from education in a
specialist music environment. The Application for an Advisory Audition form has further details.
One-to-one instrumental lessons provide a clear focus to develop the skills of performing, especially in areas of physical
skill and awareness, and of memory and concentration. Pupils receive up to 2 hours per week on their principal study.
The full range of orchestral instruments is offered, along with voice, organ, guitar, clàrsach, accordion, recorder, bagpipes
and composition, but any instrument would be considered. Lessons in Alexander Technique may also be offered. In
addition, all pupils study a second instrument on which they will be given either a half hour or an hour lesson. One of
the two studies should be piano or another harmony instrument. The Director of Music is responsible for matching
pupils with teachers.
A certain amount of practice in school is scheduled each day to run alongside the busy academic and teaching timetable.
Lessons may occasionally be re-arranged to take account of concerts and rehearsals in school, auditions or academic
activities or, since most of our music teaching staff are very active as performers, absence of the teacher. At such times,
the continuity of lessons will be maintained as far as possible.
A special feature of instrumental study at St Mary's Music School is the assignment of a coach-accompanist, with whom
a pupil works each week throughout the course of Senior School. A weekly performance class allows pupils to put into
practice what they have learnt and gives an opportunity for peer evaluation and discussion. The final hour of the week
gives pupils and teachers an opportunity to explore a range of Performance Practice related topics: from caring for an
instrument, to learning about different European performing traditions; from providing tips on how to prepare for an
audition, to focussing on breathing, accompanying, or exploring differing techniques for posture and relaxation. There
are weekly concerts in the Cathedral Chancel and at the Edinburgh Society of Musicians, lunchtime concerts in school,
as well as formal school concerts in prestigious Edinburgh venues such as the Queen’s Hall and the city centre churches.
Pupils also play for many civic occasions, including for Royalty and the Scottish Parliament, and they give frequent
concerts for outside organisations, including many charities and a number of care homes. June is an important time for
our Junior Instrumentalists. Each year they give a recital at a prestigious venue, as well as giving their own jazz concert,
lunchtime concerts, and the Junior Recital Prize.
It is our aim that every pupil will be able to explore some of the range of small-scale ensemble playing that is such a vital
part of learning about playing with others. The school runs a large Chamber Orchestra, a prestigious String Ensemble
which develops the best senior string players in the school, Early Music Groups, Junior Sinfonia, Brass Ensemble, Junior
Brass Ensemble, Wind Ensembles including Saxophone Ensemble and Clarinet Choir, a Scottish Traditional Group,
Jazz Combo and Guitar Ensemble. Timetabled Chamber Music (of 3 hours per week for senior pupils, half of which is
tutored) plays a vitally important part in the curriculum. From time to time the school organises concerts, talks and
visits into themed weeks, such as Early Music Week, Improvisation, New Music Week and even Intonation Week.
The annual Assessment Round is based on teaching and testing technical matters (Term 1), followed by the presentation
of a Recital (Term 2). Performance Results are then added together with marks for Reflective Learning and Presentation
Skills. By the end of Term 2 formal assessing is finished. Pupils will however be involved in a performing activity,
usually on their principal study. New students, Part-time Pathways Students and Choristers are not required to take
Technical Assessments in Term 1, but will have technical tasks during a Performance Assessment in Term 2. Pupils in
their final year at St Mary’s Music School will not be involved in school assessments, but rather their focus will be on
College/University Auditions in Term 1 and various public performances in Term 3.
An extensive and regular series of masterclasses with distinguished visitors takes place each term, and all pupils either
play in these or attend them. Last year visitors included Helen Krizos (piano), Martin Roscoe (piano), Chris Guild and
Piers Tattersall (electro-acoustic composition), Jenn Butterworth (Scottish Music), Rossano Sportiello (jazz), Fiona
Mitchell (voice), Helen Thomson (harp), John Wallace (brass), Dugald MacNeill (pipes), Mike Brogan (classical
saxophone), Paul Chamberlain (accordion), Simon Nieminski (organ), Mike McGeary (guitar), Martin Kershaw (jazz
saxophone), Ruari Donaldson (percussion), Paul Harris (clarinet), Leyland Chen (violin), Nikita Naumov (double bass),
Sheila Gordon (flute), Phamie Gow (clarsach), Philip Higham (cello) and Stephen West (oboe). St Mary’s Music School
encourages traditional Scottish music and improvisation; the timetable makes provision for monthly Jazz Days. Each
session the school promotes the annual Nigel Murray Masterclass, on a three–year cycle of piano, violin and cello. We
extend the invitation to teachers, to pupils and to schools. In the past three years we have welcomed distinguished
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

teachers Steven Isserlis, Felix Andrievsky and Joanna MacGregor. We have greatly enjoyed welcoming established
musicians such as David Watkin, Simon Smith, Steven Osborne and Susan Tomes who have on occasion come into
school to try out new programmes on a receptive, critical audience.
Pupils play regularly in youth orchestras such as the Edinburgh Youth Orchestra, the National Children’s Orchestra, the
National Youth Orchestra of Scotland, the National Youth Jazz Orchestra of Scotland and the National Youth
Orchestra of Great Britain, sing in the National Youth Choirs of Scotland and attend chamber music courses such as
the Hebrides Ensemble course at the Aberdeen International Youth Festival. Pupils often play alongside professional
musicians in groups such as the Edinburgh Quartet and the Scottish Ensemble. Permission from the Headteacher and
Director of Music must be sought by any pupil wishing to participate in an external musical event.
Competitions, local, national or international, as well as ABRSM exams, are used for encouragement, experience or
measures of progress, as judged appropriate by music staff. Pupils have enjoyed considerable success in the BBC Young
Musician competition and BBC Jazz and Folk Awards and in other competitions and festivals around the country,
including the Moray Piano Competition, the British Flute Society Competition and the Royal National Mòd. Pupils are
often awarded the Diploma of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (DipABRSM).
Academic Music and aural-based theoretical and practical musicianship is provided to enhance the skills a musician
needs to be a fully-rounded performer. As singing is an excellent way of developing the ear every pupil participates in
Choir on a weekly basis. Junior pupils study theory, general and practical musicianship, including composition and
improvisation. Senior pupils study harmony, counterpoint, practical harmony, composition, aural perception, form and
analysis and history of music. Pupils sit Cambridge iGCSE in S4 and SQA Advanced Higher Music in S5; pupils in S6
usually sit the Cambridge Pre-U exam or will follow an advanced course best suited to their academic profile. Either
pathway will involve both Theory and Practical and/or Composition. Pupils are encouraged to study for Grade 8 Theory
and/or Practical Musicianship.
St Mary’s Music School has commissioned and performed works from several Scottish-based composers: in recent years
“O” and “Seven Last Words from the Cross” from James MacMillan, “Veni Sancte Spiritus” from Alasdair Spratt,
“Lorca Songs” from Alasdair Nicolson, “Capricci” by Lyell Cresswell, a String Quintet and orchestral works by Tom
David Wilson. Composition, led by Tom David Wilson, is strong amongst pupils, and composers’ concerts and
workshops are held regularly. Composers are expected to rehearse and conduct their work, and to record and present
the results online. The Cathedral has long been at the forefront of commissioning and recording works from many
leading composers (see Choristers pages). Vice-President Sir James MacMillan is a regular visitor to school, giving talks
and workshops on different aspects of composition. We promote the annual Isobel Dunlop Composition Award, which
in 2014 was supported by the author Alexander McCall Smith and involved setting a text by W.H. Auden. The 2015
Competition was judged by Sebastian Forbes. This year we welcome the Master of the Queen's Music Judith Weir as
judge.
Chamber music and orchestral concerts have been recorded and broadcast on BBC Radio Scotland and BBC Radio 2
and BBC Television has filmed in connection with BBC Young Musician. The Choristers are heard regularly via radio
and TV and through the many recordings of the choir, several of which are to be found as Gramophone recommended
recordings.
Musically, the city of Edinburgh has a great deal to offer and each summer Edinburgh becomes the world’s festival city.
With the Usher Hall on the doorstep and the Queen’s Hall close by, pupils enjoy many opportunities to hear outstanding
soloists, orchestras, specialised baroque and contemporary ensembles, opera, and to hear and sometimes play with the
city’s thriving amateur chamber orchestras. The school plans such trips every week of the school year, with many of the
concerts offered free to our pupils. The extensive City Music Library is within walking distance of the school. The Royal
Conservatoire of Scotland is 50 minutes away in Glasgow.
All pupils go on to Higher Education, with by far the majority studying music and entering the music profession. Many
former pupils have enjoyed success in prestigious national and international competitions and many are now pursuing
international careers, for example guitarist Paul Galbraith, pianists Steven Osborne and Simon Smith, composers Helen
Grime and David Horne, jazz pianist Alan Benzie, soprano Susan Hamilton, mezzo-soprano Monica Brett-Crowther,
cellist Philip Higham and conductor Garry Walker. Comedian, actor and television presenter Alexander Armstrong was
a chorister at the school.
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

PATHWAYS TO MUSIC SPECIALISM for post-Higher students
Our Part-time Pathways to Music Specialism scheme offers specialist music opportunities on a part-time basis to a small
number of post-Higher instrumentalists, singers and composers from other schools who intend to apply for a music
course at university or music college and want to gain further qualifications or training. Alongside our full-time pupils,
Pathways students receive tuition of the highest quality from our specialist music staff. Some Pathways students attend
while still at other schools; others come to us during a gap year between school and higher education.
Admission is by audition in May/June preceding possible September entry and applications should be received preferably
by 31 May of the year of possible September entry. Late applications will be considered.
There is a comprehensive range of options. Details of subjects offered and fees are noted below. Fees will be calculated
on an individual basis dependent on musical needs. The weekly time allocation will not usually exceed 12 hours and the
make-up of the hours will be at the discretion of the Director of Music and the Headteacher. While in school, students
will follow a set timetable agreed with the Director of Music and will be subject to St Mary’s Music School rules. The
school year is 34 weeks. There will not necessarily be classes in all subjects for more than 30 weeks and classes are priced
on the basis of 30 weeks. One month’s notice is required to leave the course.
Because of restricted school accommodation, we cannot guarantee practice facilities for Pathways students except in
chamber music groups.
Please see the Application for a Part-Time Pathway to Music Specialism Place for further details.
Hours per week Session 2016-17
Advanced Higher 3 £ 1,400.00
Cambridge Pre-U Music 4 £ 1,800.00
Instrumental, Singing or Composition lesson 1 £ 1,980.00
¾ £ 1,485.00
½ £ 990.00
String Ensemble (by audition) 1½ £ 300.00
Chamber Music 1½ hours tuition and a minimum
further 1½ hours of practice
3 £ 900.00
Senior Choir 1 £ 100.00
Orchestra 1½ £ 130.00
Performance Class 1 £ 400.00
Alexander Technique - individual lessons ½ £ 540.00
Alexander Technique - group lessons ½ £ 180.00
Aural ½ £ 600.00
ABRSM grade 8 theory - group lessons ¾ £ 270.00
ABRSM grade 5 theory - individual lessons ½ £ 600.00
Jazz
Price on application
Pre-U, Advanced Higher or other examination fees will be charged at cost, as will audition or competition fees.
Part-time Students are expected to provide the necessary books and materials and adhere to school rules at all times.
Part-time Students are required to insure their own instruments.
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

CHORISTERS
Described by Gramophone as ‘one of the Scotland’s (indeed the UK’s) musical jewels’, the Choir of St Mary’s Cathedral
enjoys an international reputation. The girl and boy choristers all attend St Mary’s Music School, Scotland’s only choir
school, and enjoy an unparalleled musical education. The heart of a chorister's work lies in singing for the daily services
at the Cathedral and for the services on Sundays. St Mary's Cathedral is unique in Scotland in maintaining a daily choral
tradition and singing over 250 services every year. In 1978 it became the first Cathedral in the UK to offer girls bursaries
to sing with the boys as trebles.
In 2016 the choir released a disc of Stravinsky’s choral music with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra to critical acclaim.
Other recent choir recordings, which have covered music from the 16 th to the 21 st century, have all earned Editor’s
Choice in one or more specialist music magazines and received widespread praise in the national and international press.
Over the years the Choir has worked closely with a number of leading composers, commissioning, performing and
recording works by Kenneth Leighton, Arvo Pärt, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies, Sir James MacMillan, Howard Skempton
and Gabriel Jackson, among others. 2015-16 saw new works commissioned from composers Daniel Saleeb and Cecilia
McDowell. Collaborations with orchestras have included performances with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra at
the 60 th birthday concert of American composer John Zorn, at the Glasgow Tectonics Festival. In 2014-15 the choristers
performed again with the BBC SSO, including a semi-staged version of Berg’s Wozzeck under conductor Donald
Runnicles and then the Haydn Nelson Mass with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. The choir is also well known through
its many appearances on BBC Radio Three, Radio Four, and Radio Scotland, including live broadcasts of Choral
Evensong. Previous choir tours have included France, Hungary, Norway, and several trips to the USA and Canada. In
2011 the choir was invited to sing at the Taipei International Choral Festival and by the Little Singers of Tokyo at their
sixtieth anniversary concert in Suntory Hall. The Choir toured Germany in summer 2015.
The normal weekly routine articulates with the school timetable as follows:
Monday 08.30-09.30 chorister rehearsal
16.50 rehearsal (treble voices)
17.30 Evensong (over by 18.10)
Tuesday 08.30-09.30 chorister rehearsal
16.50 full choir rehearsal
17.30 Evensong (over by 18.10)
Wednesday 08.30-09.30 rehearsal
school day finishes at 15.30
(no regular Wednesday evening commitment – the Lay Clerks sing Evensong)
Thursday 08.30-09.30 chorister rehearsal
16.50 full choir rehearsal
17.30 sung Eucharist (over by 18.10)
Friday 08.30-09.30 chorister rehearsal
16.50 full choir rehearsal
17.30 Evensong
18.10-19.00 full choir rehearsal
Sunday 09.45 full choir rehearsal
10.30 sung Eucharist (until 11.45)
14.45 full choir rehearsal
15.30 Evensong (over by 16.30)
There are occasional events, such as weddings or concerts which may be on Saturdays.
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

CHORISTERS (CONTINUED)
Although the commitment is demanding and exacting, the high standard of musical performance on a daily basis brings
a great deal of satisfaction. It develops a team spirit and qualities of leadership. Singing at an occasion such as the
Christmas Carol service, or a live radio broadcast, or working and meeting with world-renowned composers is an
unforgettable experience for a chorister and provides the foundation for a lifetime’s enjoyment of all music. The
choristers’ timetable is very carefully monitored and a healthy and bright individual usually relishes the high standards
of achievement.
The ability to concentrate for long periods that a chorister builds up over his or her time in the Choir provides excellent
training for any profession he or she may take up later in life. No other opportunity exists at a later stage in life for such
musical training.
A chorister would normally start in P5 (see the probationary period described below), and is committed to remain in the
Choir until the end of S2. Choristers would then leave St Mary’s Music School to complete their secondary education.
If a boy’s voice changes before Easter in his S1 year, then his Cathedral Scholarship will usually end at the end of that
academic year. Choristers regularly win music scholarships to secondary schools and some may audition for an
instrumentalist place at St Mary’s Music School if appropriate. This school will offer a free Advisory Audition if
requested.
We usually hold auditions three times a year, with the main entry point at P5. We look for a quick mind, a good sense
of pitch and rhythm, a clear voice and usually some experience of learning a musical instrument. We suggest that
candidates bring a simple song to sing - anything such as a hymn or song learnt at their present school would be fine.
If successful at audition, they then undertake a year’s probationary training (usually P4 age, three times a week - Tuesday,
Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings), before entering the school at P5, after which they are admitted as full
choristers. Under this system they are introduced to the routine of a chorister’s life gradually, so that the transition to
St Mary’s Music School is effected smoothly.
Chorister places usually carry a Cathedral Bursary administered by the Cathedral or an Aided Place administered by the
school. This is conditional on a chorister’s behaviour, commitment and attendance.
The Organist & Master of the Cathedral Music, Duncan Ferguson, is delighted to answer questions or to hear a
prospective candidate at any stage. You are recommended to come and hear the Cathedral Choir. Enquiries may be
made through the Cathedral Office during working hours, 09.30 – 12.30 (Tel: 0131 225 6293) or through the School
Office. You can also email the Master of the Music on music@cathedral.net
Choristers starting at St Mary’s Music School learn one instrument in school time, giving them a period to become
accustomed to their new musical regime and encouraging them to use their practice time well. As they progress through
the school, a second instrument may sometimes be taken up from S1 onwards, at the discretion of the Director of Music,
while regular singing lessons are provided with Ms Susan Hamilton to support the work of the choristers in choir. All
choristers are taught music theory and composition and are given performing opportunities both in and out of school.
Chorister Fees - Session 2016-17
Per Annum
Junior Chorister £9,500.00
Senior Chorister £11,950.00
School lunches £2.55 per day £418.20
Afternoon break £0.85 per day £110.50
Cathedral Bursaries currently cover around 50% of the Chorister Fees. Please contact the Cathedral Office for details.
Details of the Aided Places Scheme are included with this prospectus.
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

ACADEMIC WORK
St Mary’s Music School provides an excellent general education, broadly based in the early years, and for older pupils, is
often more flexible and individually tailored than is generally possible in larger schools.
Our pupils follow Scottish Government Guidelines on the Curriculum in line with the Curriculum for Excellence.
Primary pupils are taught mainly by the Primary Staff and pupils in S1 and above by subject specialists.
At S3, pupils begin studying towards certified courses in six or seven subjects as part of their curriculum. At National 5
(4) level they must take English and Mathematics, and are advised to take a Modern Language, Social Subject and a
Science. All study Music, and will be presented for the Cambridge iGCSE exam in S4, SQA Advanced Higher in S5 and
Cambridge Pre-U in S6.
Pupils specialise further for SQA National Qualifications in S5. Pupils are advised to take Music, English and up to
three other subjects from the list provided.
Advanced Highers are the Scottish equivalent of A Levels, but are one year courses. Pupils may take further Advanced
Highers, Highers and National 5 exams, as required and as the demands of their ability, intentions and timetables permit.
Flexible timetabling and a structured points system take account of individual needs and may permit pupils to follow
interest courses.
Physical Education (PE) and Personal and Social Education (PSE) are taught throughout the school, and Religious and
Moral Education (RME) up to S4. Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) lessons include careers advice, health
education and talks by visiting speakers on politics and topical issues.
All pupils leaving St Mary’s Music School from S6 should have a minimum of five National 5(4) passes, four or five
Highers and post-Higher qualifications. Most pupils will have further National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher
qualifications. In S5 several pupils opt for five Higher/post-Higher qualifications and supplement practice time outwith
the school day.
Examination results are consistently excellent. Although most of our pupils proceed to Higher Education studying
Music, we are careful to ensure that pupils wishing to pursue other options have the necessary qualifications (see Leavers’
Destinations sheet). Several of our pupils apply to Oxford or Cambridge with a high degree of success whilst others
regularly gain scholarships to conservatoires.
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

2016 LEAVERS' DESTINATIONS
Royal Academy of Music (4 pupils)
Royal College of Music
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (2 Pupils)
Guildhall School of Music and Drama (2 Pupils)
Maastricht University
Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, London
University of Cambridge - Homerton College
Gap year (performing and recording throughout the UK and beyond)
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

SQA AND GCE RESULTS 2016 (pre-appeal)
Scottish Qualifications Authority
National 5
(Includes some “crash”
National 5s in years
S6/extension year)
Subject A B C D U Total
Art & Design 3 1 4
Biology 2 1 2 1 6
Chemistry 2 1 1 4
English 5 2 1 1 9
French 7 1 1 9
Geography 1 2 1 4
German 6 6
History 3 3
Italian 5 1 6
Mathematics 7 1 1 9
Physics 2 2
41 8 9 3 1 62
Percentage pass rate 98% 66% 13% 14.5% 5% 1.5%
National 4 Subject P F Total
Chemistry 1 1
Percentage pass rate 100% 100%
Higher Award Subject P F Total
Statistics 1 1
Percentage pass rate 100% 100%
Higher Grade Subject A B C D U Total
Art & Design 1 1 2
Biology 2 2
Chemistry 1 1
English 3 3 1 7
French 7 2 9
German 3 1 4
History 2 2
Mathematics 3 1 4
Percentage pass rate 100% 61% 26% 13%
19 8 4 31
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

SQA AND GCE RESULTS 2016 (pre-appeal, continued)
Scottish Qualifications Authority
Advanced Higher Subject A B C D U Total
Art & Design 3 3
Biology 1 1 2
English 2 2
French 3 3
Mathematics 1 1
Music 10 10
Spanish 1 1
18 0 3 0 1 22
Percentage pass rate 95% 82% 0% 14% 0% 5%
English Board
A Level - OCR Subject A B C D E Total
A Level Music 5 5 0 0 0 10
AS Level Music 6 1 0 3 0 10
11 6 0 3 0 20
Percentage pass rate 100% 55% 30% 0% 15% 0%
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

PASTORAL CARE
The pupils’ wellbeing is entrusted to Heads of House who work under the general supervision of the Head of Guidance
and Head of Primary. The Head of Guidance has responsibility for pupils in S3-S6ext, whilst the Head of Primary has
responsibility for pupils in P5-S2. As well as looking after pupils’ welfare, they act as advisors in such matters as subject
choice for certificate exams, and they liaise closely with boarding, academic and instrumental staff to ensure the allround
development of pupils. The Heads of Guidance and Primary are available for consultation by pupils, may always
be seen in cases of emergency, and formally interview their pupils twice a year.
The Careers Teacher liaises with music colleges and universities and with academic and instrumental staff at the school
to find courses in Higher Education for St Mary’s Music School leavers.
In Coates Hall, there are two floors of boarding accommodation. There are four permanent pastoral staff to look after
the boarders: a boarding house manager, deputy boarding house manager and two full-time houseparents as well as five
part-time houseparents. In the main building the pupils have a common room, a boarders’ sitting room with kitchenette,
bedrooms (mostly shared, two to a room), music practice rooms, libraries and IT facilities.
St Mary’s Music School has a fully developed Child Protection policy in accordance with guidelines issued by the Scottish
Council of Independent Schools and the local authority.
BOARDING HOUSE STAFF
Boarding House Manager
Deputy Boarding House Manager
Houseparents
tbc
Nadine McDonald SVQ Childcare & Education
Jennifer Boulton BA (Hons) full-time
Zuzana Liddell HNC Childcare & Education full-time
Janet Crighton MA, CertEd, CSS
Josephine Eales BA, PGCE
Anthony Gordon HNC Health Care
Wilma McGowan NNEB, HNC Business Studies
Eun-Joo Yoon BMus (Hons)
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION
St Mary’s Music School educates the choristers of St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral. The school does not have any exclusive
religious, denominational or sectarian affiliation. The ethos of the school is broadly Christian, but members of other
religions are welcome and are not required to subscribe to Christian worship. The School Chaplain usually attends
Assembly once a week and RME is taught within the school up to S4.
FEES AND GRANTS
Almost all instrumental pupils at St Mary’s Music School are supported by the generous provisions of the Aided Places
scheme, funded by Scottish Government or by the School itself. Details of the scheme are enclosed.
Details of chorister fees are also enclosed; there are a number of Cathedral Bursaries and some Aided Places available
for choristers.
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

DAILY TIMETABLE - a sample senior timetable for S3 and above
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
8.30-8.45 Aural Aural Choirs Aural Aural
8.45-9.15 Mornings:
Academic
9.15-9.45 classes, Music
lessons and
9.45-10.15 practice
10.15-10.40 10.30 Assembly
10.40-11.00 B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K
11.00-11.30
11.30-12.00
12.00-12.30 Afternoon:
Academic
12.30-1.00 classes, Music
lessons and
practice
1.00-1.45 L U N C H L U N C H
Lunchtime Concerts
L U N C H L U N C H L U N C H
1.45-2.15 Orchestras and
Ensembles
2.15-2.45
2.45-3.15
3.15-3.30 B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K
3.30-4.00 Ensembles Chamber Music Chamber Music Performance
Practice
4.00-4.30
4.30-5.00
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

DAILY TIMETABLE - a sample senior timetable for S1 and S 2 instrumentalists
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
8.30-8.45 Aural Aural Choirs Aural Aural
8.45-9.15 Mornings:
Academic
9.15-9.45 classes, Music
lessons and
9.45-10.15 practice
10.15-10.40 10.30 Assembly
10.40-11.00 B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K
11.00-11.30
11.30-12.00
12.00-12.30 Afternoon:
Academic
12.30-1.00 classes, Music
lessons and
practice
1.00-1.45 L U N C H L U N C H
Lunchtime Concerts
L U N C H L U N C H L U N C H
1.45-2.15 Ensembles,
Lessons and
2.15-2.45
Chamber Music
2.45-3.15
3.15-3.30 B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K
3.30-4.00 Theory Club Performance
Practice
4.00-4.30
4.30-5.00 Ensembles,
clubs, Music
lessons,
Composition
Club, practice
Ensembles,
clubs, Music
lessons,
Composition
Club, practice
Ensembles,
clubs, Music
lessons, practice
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

DAILY TIMETABLE - a sample timetable for Primary pupils
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
8.30-8.45 Aural Aural Choirs Aural Aural
8.45-9.15
9.15-9.45
Music practice
(instrumentalists)/
Cathedral practice
(choristers)
Music practice
(instrumentalists)/
Cathedral practice
(choristers)
Cathedral
practice
(choristers)
Music practice
(instrumentalists)/
Cathedral practice
(choristers)
Music practice
(instrumentalists)/
Cathedral practice
(choristers)
9.45-10.15 Literacy Literacy Literacy Maths Literacy
10.15-10.40 10.30 Assembly French French
10.40-11.00 B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K
11.00-11.30 Music practice/
lessons
11.30-12.00
Maths Maths Music practice/
lessons
Music practice/
lessons
12.00-12.30 Maths Music practice/
lessons
12.30-1.00
Music
practice/
lessons
Health and
Wellbeing
Maths
1.00-1.45 L U N C H L U N C H
Lunchtime Concerts
L U N C H
(1.00-2.00)
L U N C H
L U N C H
1.45-2.15 Social subjects Social subjects Ensembles, Science
Literacy
Chamber
2.15-2.45 Music
PE
2.45-3.15 Art or
Computing
3.15-3.30 B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K B R E A K
3.30-4.00 Thinking Skills Health and
Wellbeing
4.00-4.30
Theory Club RME Performance
Practice
4.30-5.00
(Cathedral
until 6.10)
Ensembles,
Composition
Club, music
lessons, practice
or Cathedral
rehearsal
Ensembles,
Composition
Club, music
lessons, practice
or Cathedral
rehearsal
Ensembles, clubs,
music lessons,
practice or
Cathedral
rehearsal
Cathedral
rehearsal
(Choristers), until
7.00
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

SCHOOL SESSION 2016-17
Autumn Term 2016
Start
1 September
Open Day
8 October
Half-term
17 – 24 October (inclusive)
Boarders Exeat Weekend 12 – 13 November
End
15 December
Spring Term 2017
Start
Half-term
End
10 January
13 – 17 February (inclusive)
30 March
Summer Term 2017
Start
Half-term
End
19 April
22 – 24 May (inclusive)
27 June
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

SATURDAY MUSIC CLASSES
Our long established popular Saturday Music Classes for children aged 4 - 14 take place during term time at St Mary’s
Music School. In a safe and caring social environment, some 150 local children discover the wonders of music, helped
by experienced staff, all highly qualified in working with children through the arts. Senior pupils of the school act as
class assistants. Dalcroze and Kodály classes begin for children in their final pre-school year, encouraging musicianship
and listening skills, nurturing their enjoyment of music and building their confidence. We offer Choirs for children in
P1 to S2. By the age of 7, children can start beginner instrumental lessons. Taster sessions are available to allow children
to meet the teacher and try an instrument. Classes are child-friendly, fun and engaging. There is a Coffee Shop for
parents to refresh themselves during lessons.
Musicianship through Dalcroze Eurhythmics (Pre-school – Final year, Primary 1, 2, 3, 4 and NEW P5)
Learning fundamental musical skills through movement is the basis of the Dalcroze Method. These classes involve
children in feeling music through movement. These classes allow children to develop an embodied understanding of
music and are excellent pre and co-instrumental training. Pupils develop the following skills: physical awareness and
control, including posture; co-ordination; listening skills; understanding of rhythm and metre; awareness of pitch and
the ability to be expressive. Longer-term, the musical skills learned through Dalcroze stay with the children forever,
informing their listening and increasing their enjoyment of all types of music.
We recommend (though it is not imperative) that these classes are taken with the appropriate Kodály class.
Kodály (Pre-school – Final year, Primary 1, 2, 3, 4 and NEW P5)
The Kodály Method uses rhythmic movement, hand signs, and vocal sounds to develop musical understanding and
development in a manner that is appropriate to the age and stage of the child. Studies have shown that the Kodály
Method improves intonation, rhythm skills, music literacy, and the ability to sing in increasingly complex parts. It has
also been shown to improve perceptual functioning, concept formation, motor skills, and performance in areas such as
literacy and numeracy. It is recommended (although not imperative) that these classes are taken with the appropriate
Dalcroze class.
Choirs (P1 to P7 and NEW S1/S2)
P1/P2 In this class the young singers will be encouraged to pitch match in a range suitable for their age and stage. Kodály
hand signs will be used to practise early musicianship. Rhythm and listening skills will be developed.
P3 Children will extend their range and be encouraged to make a lovely sound. Skills in listening, concentrating and
memory will be practised. Early aural skills will be encouraged. Kodály hand signs continue to help musicianship.
P4/P5 Children will be introduced to part singing. Kodály signing will be used. There will be opportunities to sing
individually if wished. Early notation, posture, breathing and sound production will be practised.
P6/P7 Pupils will sing regularly in 2 or 3 parts. Music notation will be used and recognised choral repertoire will be
covered. Aural skills will be practised.
S1/S2 Pupils will extend their skills singing in 2 or 3 parts using notation. Particular care will be taken with boys’ changing
voices. Good posture, diction, breathing, tuning, sound, dynamics, intervals and phrasing will all be practised.
Beginner Group Instrumental Lessons
These classes are for children in P3 upwards. It is an advantage for children starting an instrument to have attended
Kodály classes, and more developed co-ordination and physical size are important. However, violins, recorders and
clarineos can be suitable for younger children. Group instrumental lessons are offered for beginners for up to three
years of tuition.
Violin, Cello, Guitar and Clarsach are usually taught in groups of up to five and Recorder in groups of up to eight.
Recorder Ensemble and Clarinet/Clarineo Ensemble classes run according to demand for children who have had lessons
for two years.
In order to make progress and enjoy an instrument, it is strongly recommended that instrumental pupils practise for 10
- 15 minutes five times a week.
NEW for session 2016-17 we offer Trumpet or Cornet tuition from age 7 (P3) and above.
Theory
Theory forms the basis for reading music and is taught in small classes. ‘Beginners’ introduces Grade 1, ‘Intermediate’
encompasses Grades 2 and 3, and ‘Advanced’ deals with Grades 4 and 5. Pupils should provide their own books
(ABRSM publishing, “Music Theory in Practice” by Eric Taylor, appropriate grade, and “Theory is Fun” by Maureen
Cox, appropriate grade).
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

AIDED PLACES SCHEME (SCOTLAND) 2016-17
A Brief Guide for Applicants
The Aided Places Scheme provides financial assistance with the cost of tuition and boarding fees and other expenses
for pupils attending St Mary’s Music School, Edinburgh. The provisions of the scheme are contained in the St Mary’s
Music School (Aided Places) (Scotland) Regulations 2015 (SSI 2015/248).
Who is eligible for an aided place?
The minimum age for an aided place is 7 years provided the pupil will attain 8 years of age on or before 31 July
next following his or her taking up an aided place.
A child must have been resident in the British Islands for 2 years preceding 1 January of the year in which he or she
would take up an aided place. Special rules also apply to the children of workers from European Economic Area
countries, refugees and the children of refugees.
Children who have not been resident in either the British Islands or an EEA country for 2 years preceding 1 January of
the year in which he or she would take up an aided place are not eligible for an Aided Place irrespective of their
nationality. Any queries regarding eligibility should be directed to the Bursar’s Office at St Mary’s Music School.
The selection of pupils for aided places is (subject to the rules of eligibility), a matter for decision by the school. The
school will, on request, provide the necessary application forms and details of their arrangement for the selection and
admission of pupils.
What assistance is available?
Tuition and Boarding fees:
The scheme provides financial assistance towards the cost of tuition fees for 51 pupils and to the cost of boarding for a
maximum of 33 pupils (Instrumentalists). Assistance is determined by reference to a sliding scale linked to family income
(“relevant income”). Relevant income will normally be the total of the income (before tax) from all sources of both
parents or a parent and their partner (whether or not that partner has parental rights as long as they are the spouse, civil
partner or cohabitee of the parent) and any unearned income of their dependent children (whether they hold an aided
place or not) less an allowance (of £1,908 in 2016-17) for each dependent child or other relative residing in the same
household as the applicants and aided pupil, other than the aided pupil. Sums received from the following social security
benefits should not normally be included as relevant income:-
income-based child benefit
income support
housing benefit
working tax credit
child tax credit
income related employment and support
allowance
disability living allowance
universal credit
guardian’s allowance
attendance allowance
pension credit
winter fuel payments and Christmas bonus
free TV licence for over-75s
lump-sum bereavement payments
maternity allowance
industrial injuries benefit
severe disablement allowance
war widow’s pension
young person’s bridging allowance
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

AIDED PLACES SCHEME (SCOTLAND) 2016-17 (CONTINUED)
Other expenses:
Aided day pupils whose parents are receiving income support, income based Jobseekers Allowance, Child Tax Credit
(based on an annual income of no more than £16,190 and also not in receipt of Working Tax Credit except in certain
limited circumstances) or Universal Credit are eligible for free school meals.
Grants of £62-£253 towards the cost of school clothing are available to aided pupils in their first year where relevant
income is no more than £16,610. Grants of between £52-£98 may be available to aided pupils in the second and
subsequent years where relevant income does not exceed £15,917.
For aided day pupils living more than 4.8km from the school, assistance with the cost of travel will be available on a
sliding scale linked to relevant income but will be met in full where the relevant income does not exceed £14,821.
How is my relevant income assessed?
Relevant income is normally assessed on income earned in the previous tax year (e.g. relevant income for the school
year 2016-17 will be based on income in the tax year 2015-16). Applicants will be required to provide documentary
evidence (e.g. Form P60, a completed self-assessment form or copy of accounts, as appropriate) as a condition of being
granted an aided place for their child. Special rules apply where applicants are divorced or separated; where certain
disability benefits are payable; and where income is derived from a business with a special accounting year.
Applicants from overseas countries will be required to provide certified translations of documentary evidence where the
original is not in English.
What do I have to pay towards Tuition and Boarding fees?
For the school year 2016-17 parents do not have to pay anything if relevant income for the tax year 2015-16 is £16,028
or less (for an aided day pupil) or £12,722 or less (for an aided boarding pupil). If income exceeds that amount they will
have to pay an increasing share up to the full fee. As a guide, the table over leaf gives some examples of what parents
will have to pay in the school year 2016-17. The school will calculate the actual amount that you will have to pay.
You will normally be asked to pay your share of the fees in equal instalments at the start of each term. If 2 or more
children from the same family hold an aided place the contribution in respect of each child will be reduced according to
the number of children holding such places.
The amount of assistance will be reviewed annually and applicants will be required to provide details of their income
each year to enable their contributions to the fees to be reassessed.
What happens if my income falls?
In case of hardship – for example if income falls because a parent dies or is out of work – applicants’ share of the fees
may be calculated on current income, rather than income a year earlier. This can be arranged in the first year your child
holds an aided place or in later years if circumstances change.
How do I apply for an aided place?
An application for an aided place should be made to St Mary’s Music School – normally when applying for admission
to the school – but the scheme is also open to those already attending the school. The school will let you know as soon
as possible whether your application has been successful.
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l

AIDED PLACES SCHEME (SCOTLAND) 2016-17 (CONTINUED)
Parents’ contribution to fees: 20 16-17 school year (general guide)
Table of fees
Relevant
Income up to
DAY PUPILS
BOARDING PUPILS
One Aided Pupil
Each of Two or
Each of Two or
One Aided Pupil
More Aided Pupils
More Aided Pupils
£ £ £ £ £
12,722 NIL NIL NIL NIL
15,833 NIL NIL 330 246
16028 NIL NIL 369 276
18,000 216 162 762 573
20,000 414 312 1,389 1,047
25,000 915 687 1,953 1,410
30,000 1,416 1,062 2,577 1,785
40,000 2,415 1,812 3,828 2,535
50,000 3,414 2,562 5,079 3,285
60,000 4,416 3,312 6,327 4,035
80,000 6,414 4,812 8,829 5,535
100,000 8,415 6,312 11,328 7,035
120,000 10,416 7,812 13,827 8,535
150,000 13,416 10,062 17,577 10,785
200,000 18,414 13,812 23,829 14,535
250,000 23,415 17,562 30,078 18,285
275,000 24,051
19,437 33,015
20,164
(full tuition fees)
(full tuition fees)
*And so on
*Note: The relevant income scale is open ended but fee remission can be given only where the parental
contribution is less than the tuition fees. Parental contribution is based on actual salary figures. The above
table is a rough guide.
Further information is available from:
The Scottish Government Learning Directorate
Area 2C (South)
Victoria Quay
Edinburgh EH6 6QQ
Telephone: 0131 244 4502
St Mary’s Music School
Coates Hall
25 Grosvenor Crescent
Edinburgh EH12 5EL
Telephone: 0131 538 7766
S t M a r y ’ s M u s i c S c h o o l