Music

Music at Stonyhurst: Discover Your Potential

At Stonyhurst, the Jesuit motto Quant je puis – “as much as I can” – inspires everything we do, including our vibrant musical life. This phrase contains three powerful words and three guiding themes that shape your musical journey here.

Quant: As Much As, and As Well As

At Stonyhurst, quant means more than just quantity. It invites you to explore as much as you can and to embrace as well as you can: What musical activities will help you grow both as a musician and as a leader? Our extensive co-curricular programme encourages pupils to stretch their abilities, whether through performance, collaboration, or creative leadership.

Puis: Push Your Boundaries

The word puis – “can” – challenges you to go further. Try something new. Step out of your comfort zone. Whether it's joining a new ensemble, performing a solo, or composing original music, Stonyhurst gives you the opportunity to test your limits and discover talents you didn’t know you had.

Je: Your Unique Contribution

Je – “I” – is about your individuality. What can you contribute to the musical life of the school that no one else can? We value every pupil’s unique voice and creative spark. Whether you're an experienced performer or trying music for the first time, your presence enriches our community.

A Thriving Musical Environment

Stonyhurst is a place where music is everywhere. The Music Department is a hub of energy, equipped with excellent facilities and supported by passionate staff. But music at Stonyhurst extends far beyond the classroom:

  • In the boarding houses

  • In the Academy Room and Top Ref

  • In our beautiful chapels

  • Even in the corridors, where a grand piano in the Lower Gallery invites impromptu performances

Singing and Performing Together

Every pupil sings at least once a week as part of our communal life. Full boarders sing together twice weekly. In classroom music lessons, singing is central – every pupil participates. Many also take instrumental or vocal lessons with our team of specialist teachers.

We offer:

  • Regular concerts and recitals

  • Opportunities for solo and ensemble performance

  • Music trips and cultural experiences

  • A range of choirs, bands, and orchestras for all levels

Calendar of Events

Christmas Term

Easter Term

Summer Term

Your Music, Your Way

Music at Stonyhurst is shaped by you. The events we run, the ensembles we lead, and the spaces we offer – they’re all here for you to explore, enjoy, and make your own. Whether you're joining an orchestra, forming a new group, or dreaming up a performance idea, we’ll support you every step of the way.

This is your school. And the Music Department is here to help you flourish – musically, personally, and spiritually.

Music is woven into the fabric of life at Stonyhurst College. Many of our pupils take weekly instrumental or vocal tuition, and participate in choirs, ensembles, or bands. Whether you're an experienced performer or just beginning your musical journey, there’s a place for you here.

We offer a rich calendar of concerts, recitals, and public performances – giving musicians of all levels the chance to build confidence and share their talent.

Our musical co-curricular programme includes:

  • One-to-one music lessons

  • Big Band

  • Choirs

  • Chamber and instrumental ensembles

  • Orchestra

  • A full calendar of concerts and public performances

Andrew Henderson - Director of Music

Andrew Henderson is a musician and teacher of some 20 years’ experience. He arrived at Stonyhurst in 2018 for his second Director of Music role, and enjoys the combination of a traditional school music department with a significant church music programme.

His professional experience as a musician is as a choral conductor, singer, and organist, but he also has jazz experience and is keen to promote any genre which engages students in performance, particularly where it is collaborative.

Andrew leads a flourishing music department, holding numerous concerts, recitals, and collaborative projects with other schools and institutions. Andrew champions a diverse repertoire, encouraging students to explore everything from classical to contemporary works.

Music Scholarships

Led by the Director of Music, Stonyhurst Music Scholars follow a rich and rewarding musical pathway, designed to develop technical skill, artistic expression, and leadership. Awards offer up to 20% fee remission for gifted and dedicated young musicians.

This pathway includes:

  • Free weekly individual tuition on up to two instruments or voice

  • Specialist mentoring and guidance from the Music Department

  • Regular performance opportunities in concerts, recitals, and liturgical services

  • Leadership roles within choirs, ensembles, or orchestras

  • Support with preparation for external music exams, competitions, and auditions

  • Opportunities to represent the College at musical events, tours, and festivals

  • Involvement in planning and shaping the musical life of the school

Music Scholars are expected to play a leading role in Stonyhurst’s musical community – sharing their talents, inspiring others, and contributing fully to the cultural life of the College.

Learn more about Music Scholarships

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