Course
Autumn 2026
What to expect
The Purcell School, Britain's oldest specialist music school, offers a professional and inspiring environment for Holiday Music Courses. The campus features a state-of-the-art Music Centre, which includes a recital hall and a professional recording studio. The school's performance spaces, which range from the large Constance Pilkington Hall to a more intimate recital room, provide a variety of options for rehearsals and concerts. With numerous practice rooms equipped with high-quality Fazioli and Steinway pianos, the facilities are ideal for high-quality music-making. Located in Bushey, Hertfordshire, the school is easily accessible from London, with a train journey to Euston taking only 19 minutes. The school's history and commitment to musical excellence, recognized by the UNESCO Mozart Gold Medal, make it a truly inspiring setting.
Venue Website: https://www.purcell-school.org/
TUTORS
EXTENDED TEAM
To be confirmed.
Role/s
Course Director
Instrument/s
Piano
Role/s
Administration
Instrument/s
Cello
Role/s
Administration
Instrument/s
Cello, Piano, Violin, Flute
Role/s
Resident Pianist
Instrument/s
Piano
TUTORS
To be confirmed.
EXTENDED TEAM
Role/s
Administration
Instrument/s
Cello, Piano, Violin, Flute
Role/s
Resident Pianist
Instrument/s
Piano
Role/s
Administration
Instrument/s
Cello
Role/s
Course Director
Instrument/s
Piano
VENUE
GALLERY
The Purcell School
Main Building & Music Centre
The Purcell School
Main Building: West WIng
VIDEO
FAQs
Fill in the booking form at the bottom of the course page. You’ll be asked about your instrument, experience, and repertoire preferences so we can make the best group match for you.
We have several wonderful venues. Past courses were held at the Yehudi Menuhin School, Purcell School and Tonbridge school. Each course or event has a dedicated page with the venue details and other helpful information.
Not at all! Many people apply individually. We’ll place you in an ensemble that matches your playing level and repertoire interests, and we’ll provide music to you in advance.
In addition to ensemble coaching, you can enjoy a wide range of optional activities such as choir, orchestra, barbershop singing, yoga, and movement classes. Evenings are informal, with opportunities to relax and socialise in the common rooms.
Participants are sent their music 4–6 weeks before the course, giving plenty of time to prepare.
Before the course, Claire Smith (Course Director) will speak with you to discuss your playing level, experience, and repertoire preferences. She and the team will then carefully match you with other players and assign suitable repertoire.
If you are an adult amateur musician who would like to play chamber music and make friends, the course is a great fit for you. We recommend attending our Taster Days, where you can meet tutors and students, experience playing and/or singing in an ensemble, and get a feel for the course.
Anyone who plays an instrument or sings at approximately Grade 5 level or above is welcome. You can apply as a soloist, with a pre-formed group, or as a musician looking to join an ensemble.
