Music

The Music department runs an extensive and comprehensive programme of extra-curricular music with opportunities for playing, performing, practising and appreciating music available every day. The department’s motto is Making Music Happen, and at Barney it’s happening constantly.

A typical week will include rehearsals and/or performances for:
Barney Singers
Chamber Choir
String Quartet
String Orchestra
Junior Orchestra
Jubilating Jazzers
Windband
Sax Ensemble
Brass Group.

There are lunchtime recitals, afternoon tea music and daytime and weekend opportunities to perform in stunning locations including The Bowes Museum as solosits, ensembles, bands and orchestra.

The Chapel Choir plays an integral part in services at School and has also taken its music to churches and chapels around the region and beyond, often to support their fundraising efforts.

In addition, there are two full productions a year in which musicians and singers can perform. The School also attracts internationally renowned performed to encourage a wider appreciation of music.

The School hosts Barnard Castle Rotary’s Young Musician of the Year competition, which is open to musicians aged 8-17 from across Teesdale, and is also the meeting place for Barnard Castle Choral Society.