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 pupils – whether they consider themselves specialist musicians or not.

The ensemble programme is extensive and diverse, including a Symphony Orchestra, a 50-piece Concert Band, a Chamber Orchestra, four choirs, Wind, String and Brass ensembles and three Jazz groups.

Chamber music is especially strong, with our groups achieving notable success in national competitions, while we have recently inaugurated a Rock School to include Popular Music. Every two years a full-scale musical is put on in conjunction with the Drama Department.

We also arrange an evening for families considering an application for a Music Scholarship. The date for 2026 entry will be confirmed in early 2025. Please contact  for further details.

Fee reduction

A Music Scholarship at UCS will entitle the holder to a reduction in the annual school fees of between 10% and 25%. In exceptional cases an award of up to 50% of fees may be made. The precise value will depend on the standard of applicants and, therefore, the competition in any one year. Music scholars are also entitled to free instrumental tuition at school on an instrument (including voice) at the discretion of the Director of Music.

Music Scholarships Information

Music Scholarship Application