The Old House Concert Brochure

The Old House Concert Series

An Independent School for Girls aged 4-18

The Old House Concert Series The Old House has a rich musical history associated with it. Formerly known as Cannons, the site was the residence of James Brydges, the Duke of Chandos (1674-1744), who was a great patron of music. Documentation from the period details a vast collection of instruments at his disposal, and the employment of a large number of musicians. From 1717-1720, the great baroque composer George Frideric Handel was employed as the Duke’s Composer-in-Residence. His works written here include Esther, Acis and Galatea, and the Chandos Anthems.

Although the original palace was later destroyed, this musical tradition was revived when the site was acquired by North London Collegiate School in 1929. Today, the girls continue to enjoy a wide variety of musical opportunities, with a particular specialism in chamber music. The Old House Concert Series aims to celebrate this aspect of musical life at the school, providing soloists and small ensembles an opportunity to share their talents within the intimate setting of the Drummond Room.

Drummond Recitals These special evening concerts will showcase some of our most talented musicians. Please join us for a drink in the sumptuous setting of the Old House for a drink, before enjoying a wonderful evening of solo and chamber music.

Informal Lunchtime Recitals These performance opportunities are open to all pupils of the school. Enjoy some light refreshments before listening to a variety of music across different styles and genres.

All Informal Lunchtime Concerts will begin at 1.00pm with refreshments from 12.40pm All Drummond Recitals will begin at 6.00pm with refreshments from 5.30pm Mon 2nd October

Informal Lunchtime Concert

Mon 13th November Drummond Recital Tues 28th November Informal Lunchtime Concert Thurs 1st March

Drummond Recital

Thurs 10th May

Drummond Recital (featuring Middle School Soloists)

Please note there will be other Informal Lunchtime Concerts throughout the Spring and Summer Terms – dates TBC.

At North London, we provide a broad range of musical opportunities for all students and strive for ambitious music making. We encourage girls to develop skills as a performer irrespective of level, and offer a wide variety of musical experiences both within and beyond the curriculum. Approximately 550 instrumental lessons are taught each week by over 25 distinguished visiting instrumental specialists.

All styles of music thrive at North London Collegiate, from classical to rock and from chamber ensembles to large orchestras. Girls are encouraged to participate in a range of auditioned and non-auditioned musical activities.

All levels are accommodated in the three symphonic orchestras, three choirs, two string orchestras, and various ensembles. Chamber music is particularly strong – a large number of groups rehearse each week, including quartets, trios, and other ensembles.

Each year, groups take part in the South East Chamber Music Competition for Schools; in 2017, an ensemble performed in the finals of each category at St John’s Smith Square, with one of our piano trios eventually being crowned Intermediate champions.

A number of current pupils also play for the National Youth Orchestra and the National Children’s Orchestra, and have performed at prestigious London venues. In addition to this, the girls have enjoyed performing in tours to destinations such as Venice, New York and Tuscany.