Music

Music is at the heart of school life and all pupils lead an active musical life, singing in Chapel and participating in a wide variety of orchestras, choirs, ensembles and bands, which cater for all abilities and tastes. The majority of pupils learn an instrument and many take part in multiple ensembles – a number playing at the very highest levels.

We maximise our location to provide opportunities to perform in top venues including The Sheldonian Theatre, St John the Evangelist Arts Centre, Oxford Town Hall, College Chapels and The University Church. Pupils perform an ambitious musical programme of major works including Shostakovich’s Fifth Symphony, Fauré’s Requiem, Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana, Mozart’s Requiem, Dvorak’s 7^th Symphony.

Away from classical music, May Bank Holiday is celebrated with An Evening of Jazz & Blues, a spectacular range of performances by the jazz bands, close harmony groups and a whole host of pupil led groups. Meanwhile, hotly contested each year, House Singing brings the whole school together in a wonderful celebration of music.

MCS has educated the Choristers of the Magdalen College Choir for more than five centuries. Today, the Choristers sing daily services in Magdalen College Chapel, and enjoy a range of fantastic performance opportunities, including the unique chance to sing in the famous May Day celebrations from Magdalen’s Great Tower.

To understand more about the depth of musical life in the School please follow the links above.