Chetham's School of Music
· M3 1SB
Chetham's School of Music is the UK's largest specialist music school, located in Manchester city centre with boarding facilities. It combines intensive musical training with a rigorous academic curriculum, serving musically gifted pupils from age 8 through to sixth form. The school offers comprehensive provision across all major musical disciplines and attracts international pupils seeking world-class music tuition.
- →Unparalleled access to specialist music tuition and world-class instrumental teaching
- →Integration of academic subjects with intensive daily music practice and performance
- →Boarding provision enabling pupils from across UK and internationally to access elite music training
- →Stoller Hall performance venue and rehearsal facilities on campus
Who thrives here
Musically exceptionally gifted pupils with serious instrumental ambition and commitment; those willing to balance rigorous academics with daily practice regimens of 2-3+ hours.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Long Millgate, Manchester
M3 1SB
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Karl Jenkins
Composer and conductor (The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace)
James MacMillan
Scottish composer and conductor
Martin Brabbins
Conductor and composer
Recent investment
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Chetham's School of Music?
Day fees at Chetham's School of Music are approximately £42,000 per year (2025/26). Boarding fees are higher.
How do you get into Chetham's School of Music?
Chetham's School of Music admits pupils at 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by 11+ Selective Examination. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Chetham's School of Music's exam results?
At Chetham's School of Music, 14.3% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 42.1% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Chetham's School of Music a boarding school?
Chetham's School of Music offers boarding as well as day places.
What is Chetham's School of Music's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Chetham's School of Music “Excellent” (2020). This grading is no longer issued — both inspectorates have since changed how they report outcomes.
Further reading
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓World-class instrumental teaching and specialist expertise
✓Strong sense of musical community and peer excellence
✓Excellent facilities including Stoller Hall performance venue
✓Supportive integration of academics with intensive music training
✓High proportion of pupils progressing to elite conservatoires
Common concerns
!Very high workload intensity; risk of burnout for some pupils
!Limited sport and general co-curricular breadth compared to traditional schools
!Significant financial cost even with bursary support
!Boarders may experience homesickness given demanding schedule