Music

The Study of Music at Pembroke

Pembroke College wishes to attract undergraduates who have a serious interest in a Tripos course which is primarily academic. Performance and composition are integral parts of the Tripos and high levels of skill in either of these are well regarded as long as they are accompanied by an informed and inquisitive approach. The nature of the music course which involves only a limited amount of time spent on lectures and supervisions, is best suited to well-organised and self-motivated students.

Musical Life at Pembroke

Pembroke has a lively music tradition, overseen by the Director of Music, Anna Lapwood, who regularly conducts the Chapel Choir. A mixed-voice Chapel Choir sings a wide repertoire; organ scholars play a major role in College as well as Chapel musical affairs. A flourishing Music Society organises choral, orchestral and chamber concerts, as well as instrumental recitals throughout the year. The College is a member of the Instrumental Awards Scheme, details of which can be found on the University website. A professional concert series featuring Lieder singers of international stature is organised by the College Musician, Joseph Middleton. Recent events include recitals and master classes with internationally renowned artists such as Dame Felicity Lott, Sir Thomas Allen and Ian Bostridge.

Following a significant bequest to the College for the development of music within the College, music making of all kinds is generously supported. The College has a number of dedicated practice rooms and exceptional concert venues, including the seventeenth-century Wren chapel and Old Library (for chamber music), as well as a newly designed concert venue suitable for orchestral concerts currently under development. Pembroke hosts four grand pianos (including a Steinway model B), three organs, a harpsichord and a drum kit. Undergraduates reading music are provided with a keyboard in their College room.