Episode 14 My guest today is Dr Kenneth Taylor, Head of St Mary's Music School, a specialist music school for children aged 8 -19. With around 70 day and boarding pupils, it consistently tops the Sunday Times Parent Power rankings. It’s an independent school that also offers up to 100% Government-supported grants. We discuss what makes their specialist music education programme so special for young musicians. Ken tells us the school takes in two types of pupils: choristers from P5 to S2 who sing five services a week, and instrumentalists of any age playing any orchestral instrument. Right now, they have about 70 pupils, with nearly half boarding in the main building. They follow the Scottish curriculum but put heavy emphasis on music—it's tailored to students who are truly consumed by music, not just casually interested. You don't need a specific grade level to get in. The process is straightforward: you submit a simple recording, then have an informal advisory audition, followed by a formal audition, and if that goes well, you come for a two-day trial visit. Ken emphasised they're looking for that genuine passion, not just technical ability at a certain level. Once you're there, every pupil gets an individualised timetable that protects both their music and academic time. Each day kicks off with a 15-minute oral class, though Fridays start with choir rehearsal instead. First-years get two hours of one-to-one music tuition each week, and that expands to three and a half hours for the senior pupils. Beyond that, they include three hours of chamber music weekly, performance classes, coaching, and orchestral experience. Academically, they consistently punch above their weight in Scotland, and the career outcomes are impressive. About 80% of leavers go into music at a conservatoire or university, but some study something completely different, such as engineering at Cambridge or chemistry at St Andrews, and they keep music as a major part of their lives. Funding-wise, the Scottish Government Aided Places Scheme means it's genuinely affordable based on family circumstances. Some families pay nothing, while others contribute up to nearly full fees depending on income. The school also offers extra bursaries for choristers. Beyond the core music programme, they've got all sorts going on—running clubs, public speaking, eco activities. They take pupils to about 20 evening concert visits every year to major Scottish venues. They also have a strong learning support department that helps about 20 of their 69 pupils, and they work closely with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and other performing arts organisations. If parents are interested, they can visit the website or contact Becky Monogue, the Admissions Director, and start by sending in a recording. https://www.stmarysmusicschool.co.uk/ To get in touch with the podcast: schoolguidepod@gmail.com Follow us on Instagram: @nurseryandschools_edinburgh Log in to read a free digital edition of the Nursery and School Guide Magazine here: https://www.nurseryandschoolguide.co.uk/digitalmag And read our blog here: https://www.nurseryandschoolguide.co.uk
