St Edmund's
Music & Music Technology
St Edmund’s has the expertise, flexibility and resources for aspiring performers to excel at every level – from the youngest pupil in Pre-Prep to the highly skilled A-level musician.
Our programme of instrumental, vocal, theoretical and class tuition makes full use of generous rehearsal and teaching space equipped with the latest music software, dedicated practice rooms, a recital hall, music technology suites and a music studio. Music groups cater for every preference, with Performance Consultant John Harle and Mike Lovatt providing additional high-level musical support.
Inspiring musical achievement is one of our core values, and our exam results are very strong. Suitable pupils are encouraged to attend the London junior conservatoires, and St Edmund’s pupils – such as the international concert pianist Freddy Kempf – frequently go on to successful musical careers. They also represent the school in music competitions and ensembles such as the National Youth Orchestra, National Children’s Orchestra and the Kent Youth Choir.
Musical life is enriched by regular Music Scholars’ trips, masterclasses, workshops, lunchtime concerts, major termly concerts and the Carol Service in Canterbury Cathedral; and we are proud to collaborate with other schools such as St Faith’s Prep School and Northbourne Park.
Teacher profiles
Teacher profiles
Spencer Payne
Director of Music Spencer Payne is an accomplished performer, accompanist, teacher and examiner for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music. He holds a Master of Arts degree, a PGCE and diplomas in piano performance and organ from the Royal College of Music and Trinity College, London, and the Royal College of Organists.
He has conducted many musicals and productions, and is chairman of the Kent Festival Senior Piano Section, accompanist for Whitstable Choral Society, a committee member of EPTA, and a festival adjudicator. He also sings as an occasional deputy lay clerk in Canterbury Cathedral Choir.
Teacher profiles
Teacher profiles
Victoria Rowcroft
Victoria Rowcroft, Head of Academic Music, holds a PhD in Italian Renaissance madrigals from the University of Southampton, where she also gained a master’s degree with distinction and a first class undergraduate degree.
Victoria conducts the Senior School Chamber Choir for all major school events and an annual Evensong at Canterbury Cathedral. Out of school, Victoria is an experienced solo singer, and she directs the Oyster Singers – a 50-strong community choir based in Whitstable that often features St Edmund’s pupils as guest solo artists at concerts.
Teacher profiles
Teacher profiles
Ian Swatman
As a young musician, Head of Performance Ian Swatman was influenced by many people and genres of music, and he strives to offer the same opportunities to the school’s musical pupils. Alongside his role at St Edmund’s, Ian performs in a swing band, the KD Dance Orchestra, and he directs the University of Kent Big Band and Concert Band.
He says:
“I see it as my role to share the joy of music and develop skills that will stay with our young people for life, and I feel truly blessed to be able to channel my passion for music and performance into working with the talented pupils at St Edmund’s.“
