Overview
Talented young musicians will thrive in this supportive learning environment. Primary Academy is a great way to spend your Saturdays. As well as developing musically, you’ll have lots of fun with friends who, like you, really enjoy their music making!
All teaching is given by members of the Junior Academy Department, under the general direction of Krystyna Budzynska, Director of Primary Academy.
The Primary course is for children in school years five, six and seven.
Classes and Activities
Primary Academy offers Principal Study lessons in: Piano, Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Flute, Recorder, Oboe, Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba.
In addition to your individual instrumental lessons with outstanding teachers, many of whom also teach in Junior Academy, you will play chamber music, sing in the choir, improve your aural, theory and general musicianship and, if you are a string or wind player, play in either a string or wind ensemble.
Entry requirements
We expect applicants auditioning for Primary Academy to have attained at least ABRSM Grade 5 distinction (or the equivalent standard) on their first-study instrument.
The Primary course is for children in school years five, six and seven.
Auditions
Auditions for entry will be a two part process, with a video submission followed by a live recall for selected applicants.
We aim to make the audition experience as enjoyable and supportive as possible – we want to hear you play your best and we always enjoy meeting students who love music as much as we do.
We would expect candidates to be excused from school if necessary. We will try to accommodate any stated non-availability but are not able to accept requests for specific audition dates. Scheduling of audition dates will begin after the closing date for applications and we aim to send out audition letters in March.
We welcome applications from potential students with disabilities or special needs who meet the expected musical performance criteria.
The closing date for the application form and the video submission will be 1 March 2026.
The 2026 application form and further information will be available on the website in early January 2026.
Video Submission
Please provide:
- Two contrasting pieces on your first study instrument (10 mins max in combination).
- A short video (3 mins max) featuring a little bit about you, the importance of music in your life, why you wish to come to Primary Academy and what you hope to achieve in the future.
Your pieces can be recorded with an accompanist if you would like, but it is not expected. Please do not use a backing track.
Please see Video Auditions and Assessments for further assistance on how to produce your video.
Live Auditions
If you are selected for a live audition you can play the same two pieces as your video audition, or choose to play entirely different pieces - it's up to you.
Applicants should prepare two contrasting pieces on their main instrument.
Wellbeing
We believe that students thrive when their wellbeing is prioritized, which is why all of our Junior Academy programmes integrate techniques for managing anxiety, enhancing practice routines and improving memory.
More performance, less assessment
Through focusing on individual and group performance, we create a nurturing environment where you can grow without the pressure of constant evaluation.
'Confident young performer' programme
This programme, designed for 12-18-year-olds, is built around fostering both musical ability and mental wellbeing. It provides essential tools to manage the demands of being a musician, including workshops on the Alexander Technique.
You will work closely with Helen Kuby, a wellbeing coach and specialist in performance psychology. Through individual lessons and ensembles, Helen will help you build confidence through music while teaching you to understand your body and mind, particularly when it comes to over-practicing and performance anxiety.
One-to-one performance coaching sessions
Our tailored one-on-one coaching sessions offer you the chance to develop your musical skills in a relaxed and supportive environment. You will receive individualized attention to help you progress at your own pace, helping you to feel confident and capable in your performances.
Independence and teamwork
We encourage you to think independently, solve problems on your own, and take ownership of your personal growth. We also place a strong emphasis on teamwork, teaching you the value of cooperation, understanding and tolerance. Our supportive and approachable staff are always on-hand to guide you, preparing you for your musical journey and for life in general.
Community and belonging
In September, we host a Saturday morning welcome day before the term begins, offering an opportunity for you to meet with the other students and take part in orchestral rehearsals. This event helps build a sense of community where everyone feels valued and connected and no student is left feeling isolated.
Term Dates 2026/27
Summer 2026
Saturday 25 April - Saturday 11 July (10 weeks)
Half term: Saturday 23 May & Saturday 30 May
Autumn 2026
Saturday 19 September - Saturday 12 December (11 weeks)
Half term: Saturday 24 October & Saturday 31 October
Intensive Day: Saturday 12 September
This includes all Junior Academy, Primary Academy and Junior Jazz students.
Spring 2027
Saturday 9 January to Saturday 20 March (10 weeks)
Half term: Saturday 13 February
Summer 2027
Saturday 17 April - Saturday 10 July (11 weeks)
Half term: Saturday 29 May & Saturday 5 June
With Thanks To
Junior Academy is very grateful to donors and benefactors whose assistance has greatly facilitated the implementation of our plans. Alongside various anonymous benefactors, these include:
- The Leverhulme Trust
- The Wolfson Foundation
- Musicians Benevolent Fund
- Susan Lawrence Travel Bursary Fund
- Julian Bream Trust Scholarships
- Benslow Musical Instrument Loan Scheme
- Department of Education Music and Dance Scheme (MDS)
- ABRSM
Junior Academy is supported by the Music and Dance Scheme Access to Excellence programme. The aim of the scheme is ‘to help identify, and assist, children with exceptional potential, regardless of their personal circumstances, to benefit from world-class specialist training as part of a broad and balanced education, which will enable them, if they choose, to proceed towards self-sustaining careers in music and dance’.