Music

At Sandford Park School, we believe in the transformative power of music education. Our instrumental lessons are an integral part of our programme, offering students the opportunity to explore and develop their musical talents. Lessons are scheduled during the school day on a rotating basis to minimize disruption to academic subjects. Each student receives a dedicated 40-minute lesson most weeks, amounting to 30 lessons per school year. Our experienced music teachers provide tuition in a variety of instruments and genres, including piano, voice, drums, rock guitar, classical guitar, bass guitar, flute, violin, viola, clarinet, and saxophone. For added convenience, lessons can be arranged before or after school hours in certain cases. For more information on instrumental lessons, including enrolment procedures and fees, please consult our Music Department Instrumental Lessons, Choirs and Ensembles booklet. Whether your child is a beginner or an advanced musician, Sandford Park School is dedicated to nurturing their musical passion and fostering their artistic development.

Sandford Park School has a proud choral tradition, offering vibrant choir programmes for students of all ages. Our choirs have travelled to Boston, Toronto, New York, Calgary, Stockholm, Chicago, and Washington DC for musical engagements, showcasing their talent internationally. We provide diverse performance opportunities, allowing students to explore various vocal styles, including classical, pop, jazz, and musical theatre, under the guidance of our dedicated choir directors. They develop vocal techniques, harmonisation skills, and stage presence while fostering camaraderie and a lifelong appreciation for choral music. Junior Girls’ Choir: Open to girls in Forms 1, 2, and 3, this choir focuses on two- and three-part repertoire, building foundational choral skills. Junior Boys’ Choir: This ensemble for boys in Forms 1, 2, and 3 performs popular, gospel, and folk music at concerts and assemblies. Senior Choir: Welcoming students from Forms 4, 5, and 6, the Senior Choir hones advanced choral abilities and performs at school events and competitions. Join us at Sandford Park School and celebrate the power of the human voice through our exceptional choir programme.

Welcome to the Sandford Park School Orchestra, a prestigious ensemble that has achieved remarkable success. Our orchestra proudly secured 1st place at Feis Ceoil on a number of occasions, showcasing our dedication to musical excellence. We have also graced the stage of the National Concert Hall, delivering captivating performances to wider audiences. The orchestra welcomes all students who play acoustic instruments and have a passion for ensemble playing. Proficiency in reading music is essential as we explore a diverse repertoire that includes classical arrangements, popular tunes, jazz standards, and memorable film scores. Discover the thrill of being part of the Sandford Park School Orchestra, where every member contributes to our legacy of musical excellence and artistic achievement. Join us in celebrating the power of music to inspire, unite, and enrich our community.

At Sandford Park School, we offer a diverse range of music ensembles to cater to the varied interests of our students. Participation in these groups not only enhances musical skills but also fosters teamwork and creativity. Aon Scála: Our traditional Irish music ensemble, Aon Scála, welcomes students from all forms. This group explores the rich heritage of Irish music, performing dances and slow airs. Piano Trio: Featuring a piano, violin, and cello, the Piano Trio showcases their talents at school events and competitions. Their performances highlight the intricate interplay between the instruments. Jazz Band: Our Jazz Band brings the vibrant sounds of jazz to life, with opportunities for students to explore improvisation and classic jazz standards. This ensemble performs at various school functions, adding a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Guitar Quartet: The Guitar Quartet provides a platform for guitar enthusiasts to collaborate and perform together. This group offers a unique blend of classical and contemporary pieces, enhancing the musical experience for both performers and audiences. Pop/Rock Bands: Our Pop/Rock bands energise school events with their dynamic performances. These groups also participate in the hotly contested Battle of the Bands competition, showcasing their talent and competing for top honours. The Centuritones: This male a cappella group features students from Forms 4 to 6. The Centuritones deliver captivating vocal performances at school events, highlighting the unique and powerful sound of unaccompanied harmony. Joining one of these ensembles is a fantastic way for students to develop their musical abilities and contribute to the vibrant cultural life at Sandford Park School.

Our Music Department proudly participates in several prestigious competitions each year, showcasing the incredible talent and hard work of our students. Among these are the Feis Ceoil and the Wesley Interschools Music Festival, where our students consistently excel and gain valuable performance experience. In addition to these external competitions, we host our very own annual event, the Battle of the Bands. This highly anticipated competition highlights the exceptional skills of our pop/rock musicians, providing a platform for them to shine. The Battle of the Bands culminates in a thrilling showcase, with a trophy and a cash prize awarded to the overall winner. This event not only celebrates musical talent but also fosters a sense of community and school spirit. Our competitions are an integral part of the Music Department, offering students the opportunity to develop their musical abilities, gain confidence, and experience the excitement of live performance.