Music has always been an important part of College life and the team in the Music Department make sure that boys can choose from a wide range of musical genres. Rock music has long had a strong appeal for many teenage boys and, this year, tutor Nolan Hungerford is coming to College twice a week to help nurture 11 fledgling rock bands and groups. He works in the newly remodelled basement area of the Music Centre where extra soundproofing and sound systems have been installed. “We give the boys the opportunity to experience being in a band, playing music, and learning all
the associated skills,’’ says Nolan. “My plan is that when they leave school, these boys will have a catalogue of music they can play and have the potential to be commercially viable. We want them to be able to hold the group together, have a good set list and have fun. “Of course, some groups are very new and are still learning to play their instruments,’’ he says. “My rule is frequency of practice. The more you do, the more you get from it – you can’t be excellent without effort. But boys generally are keen to get better and will put in the hours. “Most adolescents love music and sometimes it is easy for schools to leave music on the side as something separate.
College is great as it has so many opportunities for boys to get together and really enjoy music in events such as House music and Congers. “I have to say that all our guys are focused. Once we give them a goal, they have a reason to keep trying and it is great to be able to have class time for practice. They get a real sense of meaning from being given the opportunity to play and to learn as a group. I’m constantly looking for opportunities for the boys to play for an audience – for instance, at the start of a fun run, up on the ski field and, of course, at private functions. “In fact, I would encourage any College parents or friends who have a corporate event, to remember that College has
College Issue 32 2017
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