Striking the right chord: Celebrating music at Dulwich Pudong

Music has long been an integral part of the Dulwich Pudong experience, shaping students’ creativity, confidence, and cultural awareness. As our new Director of Music Ruth Collings enters her third term in charge of the College’s music programme, it is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the dynamic and enriching musical education we offer.

A vision for music at Dulwich Pudong

Since she first arrived at Dulwich Pudong in 2015 as a Senior School Music teacher, Ruth Collings has embraced the College’s rich musical heritage while bringing fresh energy and vision to the programme. In the past two terms, the music department has delivered over 35 events and activities, most recently the annual Spring Concert in March. Preparations are already underway for the traditionally spectacular Founders Day Concert in May, along with an array of other music events this term.

This philosophy is embedded in every aspect of the College’s music curriculum and co-curricular offerings, ensuring it is not just an activity, but a core element of student life.

From DUCKS to Senior School: A musical journey

Music at Dulwich Pudong begins at the very foundation of a child’s education. In DUCKS, the youngest students engage in lively and interactive lessons led by specialist teachers, where they sing, move, and play percussion instruments to build their motor skills and auditory awareness. They are also introduced to the recorder and are encouraged to perform regularly, helping them build confidence from an early age.

In Junior School, students embark on a structured musical path, learning to play different instruments whilst developing core musical skills and literacy and exploring music from different periods of history and different parts of the world. All Year 3 students are given tuition on a string instrument, while in Year 5 students all choose band instruments from the woodwind and brass families. As well as learning in class, students are each lent an instrument to take home to practice, and quickly progress from mastering the basics to performing pieces of music together in harmony. Their success is celebrated through vibrant end-of-term concerts and performances.

The journey continues in Senior School, where students deepen their musical understanding. Middle School students focus on composing, listening and performing in diverse musical styles. A highlight of the programme is the Year 9 battle of the bands, where all Year 9 students form their own bands and write and perform their own songs, with one group crowned best band of the year. In Upper School students can choose to study music at the rigorous IGCSE and IB levels, with a track record of very strong results and students going on to study music at prestigious institutions like the Royal Northern College of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in the UK, and New York University in the USA. Leadership opportunities also abound, with students taking on roles such as Music Ambassadors, coaching younger students, and running their own music ensembles.

Every student has a part to play

A key strength of the Dulwich Pudong music programme is its extensive Ensemble Programme, designed to cater to students of all skill levels. With over 20 music co-curricular activities available each week, every student can find a group that suits their interests and abilities.

For instrumentalists, opportunities range from the Zheng He Orchestra for younger students to the Concert Orchestra for older musicians. Specialized groups such as the Brass Band, Big Band, and String Orchestras provide varied musical experiences, while a Rock Band programme caters to our pop and rock performers.

Vocalists are equally well-supported, with a range of choirs tailored to different age groups and abilities. From the Mulan and Mushu Choirs in Years 1 and 2 to the advanced Chamber Choir and contemporary vocal group Singchronised in Senior School, there is a platform for every aspiring singer to develop and perform. Even parents take part, with the Friends of Dulwich Community Choir regularly performing alongside our student groups in events and concerts.

The Dulwich Music Academy: Nurturing talent

Beyond ensemble work, the Dulwich Music Academy provides expert one-to-one tuition on more than 15 different orchestral and pop instruments, allowing students to refine their skills under the guidance of experienced teachers. Lessons are available during the school day, after school, and on weekends, ensuring flexibility for students balancing multiple commitments.

Students can study piano, strings, woodwind, brass, percussion, and voice, with an emphasis on both technical proficiency and expressive performance. Theory lessons further support their musical development, equipping them with a comprehensive understanding of the language of music.

Performing on the world stage

At Dulwich Pudong, learning music extends far beyond the classroom. Students regularly perform in school settings—from informal busking sessions to formal soirees and major concerts such as the annual Winter and Spring Concerts. These experiences, which also include regional and international events run by bodies such as ISCMS and FOBISIA, allow students to build stage confidence and develop a love for live performance.

Looking ahead

As Ms Collings reflects on her first year as Director of Music, the future of music at Dulwich Pudong looks brighter than ever. With a commitment to inclusivity, excellence, and innovation, the College continues to offer a music education that inspires and empowers every student.

Whether a child is picking up their first instrument in DUCKS, composing an original piece in Senior School, or performing in an international festival, the music programme at Dulwich Pudong ensures that every student has the chance to find their voice and share their passion. As the school looks to the future, it remains dedicated to fostering the next generation of musicians and music lovers.

Q&A with Ms Collings

Q: What has been your musical highlight during the past year?

There are so many wonderful musical things that have happened the Dulwich music department over the past year that it is hard to choose just one highlight, but one thing that has stood out for me was our fabulous Winter Concert, which we held in the world-class Shanghai Oriental Arts Centre this year. At the end of the concert, over 200 Junior and Senior students, staff and parents came together on the stage to sing and play the finale piece, a heartwarming reflection of the power of music to connect us.

Q: What makes a musical education at Dulwich Pudong unique?

Our real passion at Dulwich Pudong is creating a programme that is both inclusive and strives for excellence. Students are taught by specialist music teachers right from the beginning, meaning children are receiving high-quality instruction throughout their time at the school. We also work hard to ensure there are a great range of practical music making opportunities for children from DUCKS right up to IB, so students of all abilities can find the right groups for them. I love hearing form our Senior School students about where their musical journeys began, and it is a testament to our programme how many of our most advanced musicians first started playing their instruments in the Year 3 string programme or Year 5 band programme, and how many can trace their journey back through our junior ensembles and DUCKS music lessons.