Discover the symphonic journey of The British School Al Khubairat, where academic excellence meets a crescendo of musical brilliance
PARTNER CONTENT: In one of The British School Al Khubairat’s (BSAK) recent newsletters, Helen Kerr, the Director of Music, states how “The Music Department is not only the heartbeat of BSAK, with music prevailing the building on a daily basis, but it is also a thriving hive of activity, friendship and community.”
Helen further explains how BSAK offers an “exceptional array of provision for BSAK Music students with bespoke individual instrumental lessons, unplugged concerts, recitals, performing arts collaborations, Friday Jams, Tiny Desk concerts, and masterclass opportunities.
“We also seek opportunities to perform in the community and have a great number of students involved in the Abu Dhabi Youth Choir and Orchestra,” she says. “All of which truly underpin that music is at the very heart of BSAK, as well as being an integral part of a well-balanced and holistic musical education.”
Therefore, BSAK is not just a school; it’s a symphony of academic excellence and holistic development, offering a comprehensive and enriching musical education, that sets it apart in the UAE and the wider region. From state-of-the-art facilities to a team of dedicated teachers, a scholars’ programme and vast performance opportunities, BSAK’s commitment to music education is truly commendable.
Commitment to music education
There is no doubting BSAK’s attention to detail to its music provision, across its curriculum, from Primary to Secondary. This is evident in the breadth of musical activities available to students.
The School offers approximately 500 instrumental lessons per week, covering orchestral instruments, guitars, drums, piano, singing, and more, across various styles such as classical, rock, popular and jazz.
What is truly inspiring, however, is its inclusivity, offering instrumental lessons to all children from Year 2 onwards.
This nurture at an early age, has led to a growing number of students choosing music as a GCSE and A Level subject, with exceptional results, and beyond to university.
Truimph at ADYM and YMOG music competitions
In the vibrant realm of musical competitions, BSAK’s stars shone brightly, showcasing remarkable talent and dedication.
At the recent Abu Dhabi Young Musician (ADYM) 2024 Competition, BSAK swept an impressive array of accolades, with notable victories in various categories.
The BSAK Boyz clinched the Small Ensemble Prize, while BSAK Strings triumphed in the Large Ensemble category, and the BSAK Elite Singers earned the Vocal Ensemble Prize.
Additionally, individual students demonstrated outstanding prowess, with Intermediate and Advanced winners emerging across Woodwind, Brass, Classical Singing, Classical Guitar, and Piano categories.
Exceptional Year 9 student, Kenodh De Silva, emerged as the Overall Winner of the ADYM 2024 Competition for the second year running, a testament to BSAK’s musical excellence.
Moreover, in the prestigious Young Musician of the Gulf Competition 2024, BSAK’s musical virtuosos left an indelible mark, dominating many categories and earning a total of 11 trophies.
The competition, featuring top British Schools from across the Gulf, witnessed BSAK’s stellar representation, with numerous finalists and ensemble victories.
Notably, BSAK secured wins in three out of four ensemble categories and showcased exceptional talent in solo performances.
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Kenodh’s stellar performance again earned the title of Runner Up of the entire competition, further solidifying BSAK’s position as a powerhouse in musical education.
These triumphs underscore the unwavering commitment and tireless efforts of the BSAK Music Team in nurturing and guiding students towards musical excellence.
Through rigorous training, dedication, and passion, they continue to inspire a generation of young musicians, enriching the cultural landscape of the UAE and beyond.
Investment, teaching and resources
BSAK’s music department boasts exceptional investment, resources, and faculty dedicated to nurturing students gifted in, or with ambitions in, music.
The School is home to 14 full-time, specialist instrumental teachers, who are all professional musicians in their own right, and supported by a dedicated Music Administrator.
These teachers, along with the Director of Music and the Secondary Head of Academic Music, Primary Head of Music and an additional Primary Music specialist teacher ensure that students receive the best possible musical education.
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While the mantra of the department is making music accessible for all, the team is able to ensure students can attain the highest levels of achievement, with a large number not only reaching Grade 8 level in official examinations, but also many obtaining their Diplomas in Musical Performance.
The school’s substantial cap-ex budget is evident in its investment in musical instruments, including contrabass and alto flutes, and ⅛ sized violins to encourage its younger students. BSAK also provides a substantial stock of instruments that are hired by students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder musical pursuits.
BSAK’s Primary Music Coordinator, supported by a Specialist Primary Music teacher, ensures that music education begins early and is integrated into the curriculum seamlessly.
The school has a dedicated Music Department, with three large teaching classrooms for specific age groups, practice rooms, and a smaller classroom for KS4 & 5 teaching.
Additionally, the School offers a dedicated composition suite equipped with Macs and Sibelius software, individual teaching spaces for all instrumental teachers, and two large auditoriums for performances, along with the use of the theatre and outdoor space for concerts.
BSAK’s commitment to music education extends beyond its walls, with community events, masterclasses, and workshops that enrich the musical experiences of its students.
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The School also organises CPD sessions for its teachers, ensuring that they are up to date with the latest trends and techniques in music education.
Future investments include a recording studio, additional classroom and rehearsal space, and a long-term plan for a performance venue, all of which will solidify BSAK’s position as a leader in music education in the UAE and the region.
In conclusion, BSAK’s music department is a testament to the School’s commitment to providing a well-rounded education that nurtures talent and fosters creativity.
Through its exceptional investment, teaching, and resources, BSAK continues to inspire young musicians and set the standard for music education in the UAE and beyond.
For more information, visit British School Al Khubeirat and follow @BSAKmusic on X and Instagram
For more education news, visit Yalla Abu Dhabi
