Music Summer Schools
Wells Cathedral School was alive with music, colour, and creativity as 185 young musicians from around the world joined our renowned Summer Music Courses.
Pupils travelled from across the UK and as far afield as Switzerland, the United States, Dubai, Malaysia, South Korea and even Brazil to spend a summer in Wells. For many, it was their first taste of our School’s unique musical environment; for others, it was a welcome return to a place where talent is nurtured, friendships are made, and music fills every corner.
The breadth of courses reflected our reputation as one of the UK’s leading specialist music schools. This year, pupils immersed themselves in Wind, Brass and Percussion, Keyboard, Vocal, Composing for Media, Jazz, and Strings. Each programme combined individual lessons, ensemble rehearsals, and group workshops, ensuring every pupil could grow as both a soloist and a collaborator.
What makes Wells’ summer courses distinctive is the access pupils get to exceptional teaching. Alongside our own dedicated and inspiring staff, participants benefited from masterclasses with industry professionals such as composer David Buckley, offering insights into performance, technique, and the realities of life as a modern musician. These experiences gave pupils the chance to stretch themselves, build confidence, and perform to an audience, all within a supportive and encouraging environment.
Yet the courses are not just about music. Just as important are the opportunities for pupils to relax, recharge, and forge friendships with peers from across the globe. This year’s highlights included the famous choir in a week, proving how quickly young musicians can come together in harmony and a now legendary powder paint fight, which left pupils and staff laughing, bonding, and covered head to toe in bright colour. These moments capture the spirit of the courses: music at the centre, but friendship, fun, and memories that last a lifetime running alongside it.
For parents and families, the message is clear: Wells summer music courses offer more than world-class tuition. They provide a safe, vibrant community where young people can grow as musicians and as individuals. Pupils return home with sharper skills, deeper knowledge, new friends, and the confidence that comes from challenging themselves in an inspiring environment. Don’t believe us, just ask those pupils who come back year after year.
As the final notes of the summer rang out across Wells, one thing was certain: these courses are more than a week of music-making. They are a launchpad for talent, a celebration of community, and a reminder of the power of music to bring people together.
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