Music

The Music Department

In January 2021, we opened our £4.5 million Castle Performing Arts Centre. This state-of-the-art facility comprises:

• a 500-seat theatre equipped with all the latest lighting and acoustic technology
• a large drama studio
• two purpose-built music classrooms benefitting from Apple iMacs, Yamaha keyboards, and software including Sibelius and GarageBand
• five bespoke practice rooms.

This fantastic facility provides a unique performance space to motivate and inspire our young musicians.

With a choir, Training Orchestra, Chamber Ensemble, music improvisation club, busking club, ukulele club and more, Dunottar pupils have many opportunities to sing and play together. Pupils regularly perform to appreciative audiences, whether in our frequent concerts in the Castle Theatre, our termly Live Lounge events, or the annual whole-school musical.

A significant number of pupils elect to learn a musical instrument in school, through individual instrumental lessons taught by specialist teachers. Music Scholarships are offered to those who show exceptional potential on entry in Year 7 and Year 12.

Dunottar Saturday Music Academy

The Saturday Music Academy is open to all young musicians between the ages of 5 and 18. We offer music tuition for all abilities, from beginners to more experienced musicians, on the violin, viola, cello, piano, voice, recorder, guitar and music theory. The Academy offers pupils the opportunity to work with visiting professional musicians in masterclasses, choral and chamber music projects as well as regular performing platforms to enhance progress and the appreciation of music. Click here for more information or to complete our online application form.

Dunottar Chamber Ensemble – Summer Concert 2022

Listen here