Music Scholarships
All you need to know about applying for an 11+ Music Scholarship
Scholarships are awarded to exceptionally talented and committed musicians demonstrating ability, passion and potential in one or more instrument.
We are seeking passionate musicians who will enjoy being involved with all aspects of music at Putney High School. Applicants should ideally be of at least Grade 5 standard on their first instrument, however, we are looking for passion and potential. An interest in singing is encouraged.
Candidates must also satisfy the Putney High School entry requirements.
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Our 11+ Music Taster Evening is a fantastic opportunity for pupils to experience what it is like to play music at the Putney High School as well as meet some of our current music scholars and teaching staff.
There will also be an opportunity to find out more about the scholarship programme on offer with a Q&A with the Director of Music, Miss Wynter.
Applying for a Music Scholarship
To apply, please tick the box on the 11+ main application form indicating that you would like to apply for a Music Scholarship.
Once your application has been submitted, you will receive links to:
- The Music Scholarship Application Form
- The Music Scholarship Reference Form (to be completed by your nominated referee)
- All candidates will be asked to upload a short performance video. If the candidate plays more than one instrument, we would like to hear a little performance of each instrument. Please note that singing counts as an instrument.
Please note that all the above must be completed and submitted by the application deadline of Monday 3 November 2026 at 12 noon.
When joining, I loved the sense of community around the music department and the passion that everyone had when performing.
Elizabeth – current music scholar
Audition requirements
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an audition of no more than 20 minutes.
Candidates should present a programme demonstrating their musical aptitude on one or more instruments of their choice (this can include voice). Only one piece per instrument is required. The audition will also include the following:
- Sight-reading on the candidate’s first instrument
- Aural tests of approximately grade 5 standard
- A short informal chat to demonstrate the candidate’s passion and love of music.
An accompanist will be provided for the audition.
Key Dates
Application Deadline: 3 November 2026 (12 noon)
Assessment Day: Thursday 14 and Friday 15 January 2027
Results: The results of the assessment will be released at the same time as the 11+ results letters
Preparing For Your 11+ Music Scholarship Audition
When deciding which pieces to play, please be mindful of the following:
Difficulty – choose pieces that you can play comfortably and musically. A performance of a more modest piece that is played fluently and is full of musical interest and detail will impress us far more than a difficult piece played less accurately.
Accompaniment – we will provide an accompanist for your audition. If your piece has a piano part, remember to bring it with you.
Singing – although not a requirement, it is always a pleasure to hear candidates sing. Please bring a piece if you wish – a song that you may have learned with your school choir would be fine.
The audition will include sight reading on the candidate’s first instrument and aural tests. These will be of approximately Grade 5 standard.
Above all, we want the candidates to feel totally at ease throughout the audition and enjoy performing music.
If you have an academically gifted daughter with a musical bent, try very hard to get her a place here.
Tatler Schools Guide