Chetham's School of Music

With 290 or so students, aged 8 - 18, Chetham's is the largest specialist Music School in the UK and the only Music School based in the North of England. In the heart of Manchester, our vibrant cosmopolitan city centre location complements a dynamic music programme - we regularly collaborate with the city's leading cultural venues on a range of projects and initiatives, to present exciting opportunities for our students. Chetham's is an integral part of the North West's rich cultural heritage, housed in buildings that are nearly 600 years old and boasting a truly unique and magical atmosphere. Our medieval buildings are one of Manchester's real gems - playing music in the Baronial Hall is undoubtedly an experience in itself! A Chets student's diary is always busy and packed with opportunities inside and outside the practice room. Recently, our students have broadcast for BBC Radio 3, performed at BBC Proms in the Park, composed music in response to artworks from the British Art Show and performed as part of an exhibition at Manchester Museum. Our jazz musicians regularly perform at leading venues and our two Big Bands are regularly winners of national prizes. Our Chamber Choir recently performed at the BBC Proms with the Gabrielli Consort and Paul McCreesh and recorded for Deutsche Grammophone. We also share our Manchester home with The Bridgewater Hall, Hallé, BBC Philharmonic orchestras and Royal Northern College of Music - Chets students regularly benefit from our strong links with the organisations through events and festivals. Many of Chetham's tutors also teach at the RNCM and are principal players with the city's orchestras.