Total Music Study
At Saint Thomas, our approach to music education extends far beyond the choir room. In addition to the nearly 20 hours a week of choir rehearsals, services, and performances, the boys hone their musical talents in many ways.
Instrumental Lessons
All students study an instrument during their time at the Choir School. Students choose among piano, violin, and cello and are welcome to continue with an instrument they have studied previously or try one that is new to them. Weekly private lessons are taught by professional musicians contracted by the school.
Voice Lessons
Each week all students have an individual lessons with the school’s voice teacher. The lessons focus on technique and repertoire from the choir as well as solo pieces from a variety of musical genres. The voice teacher works collaboratively with the Choirmaster to help make sure each boy is reaching his full potential both as a member of the choir and as an individual performer.
Recitals
The best way to become comfortable with performance is to perform! Once the boys are proficient with the repertoire from their private vocal and instrumental lessons, they play at recitals scheduled during weekday lunches and broadcast to families via Zoom. These performances offer a chance for students to show off their individual musical skills to their parents, teachers, and friends.
Musical Studies
Classes in musical studies meet several times per week as part of the regular academic schedule. The curriculum is built around a three-pronged approach, combining lessons in music theory, music history, and practical musicianship to help the choristers become well-rounded musicians.
ABRSM
The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music exams are held every year and proctored by an ABRSM representative at the Choir School. All boys take these vocal and instrumental exams as a way to measure their progress by an internationally-recognized standard, and the Choir School helps to prepare each student thoroughly. Practice periods held during the academic schedule Monday through Friday allow the students to work on techniques learned in their vocal and instrumental lessons. Learn more about the ABRSM by visiting their website.
