Jazz Summer School FAQs

1. What is the atmosphere like?

Vibrant and happy. The Guildhall Summer School is the place for positive and open-minded musicians of all ages and abilities - everyone shares their music and their ideas here and helps each other out. While the heart of the course is in jazz, we take it in its broadest sense and nearly every style of popular music appears here. Several major rock stars, and a large number of well-known jazz musicians have been students on the course, as well as many people who come simply for their own interest or for a musical holiday.

2. Are there any entrance auditions or requirements?

No, we don't hold auditions, all students are welcome from beginners right up to advanced, i.e. gigging level. By beginners we mean students who are new to jazz or rock rather than beginners to playing an instrument. We recommend that the lowest comfortable standard should be something like Grade 3 level in music grade exam terms. Singers interested in the singers weekend need have no reading experience - this is the perfect place for choral singers to meet singers who are used to working "by ear".

3. Will it be OK if I come on my own?

Nearly all our students come on their own and very quickly make friends!

4. Are any instruments available at the Summer School?

The School provides a limited number of amplifiers and drum kits (though not cymbals). It is best for guitarists and bass players to bring their own amps, and drummers should bring a kit if possible; in any case all drummers must bring their own cymbals and a universal high-hat clutch. Singers on the one-week and Advanced courses ideally should bring a microphone and plugs to fit both XLR and phone jack input if they can. There is no need to bring a mike to the Singers' Weekend.

5. What happens in the evenings?

We have a tutor concert each evening from Monday to Thursday between 7.00 and 8.00pm and then the Club starts with a chance for students to play to each other. Family and friends are welcome!

On Friday evening we have our mega final concert from 7.00-10.30pm when all the tutor bands formed during the week perform. Again family and friends are welcome. The foyer bar is open each evening.

6. What refreshments/food is available?

A full foyer café bar service runs from 9.30am each day.

7. What is the residential accommodation like?

A limited amount of accommodation is available in flats in the School's Sundial Court Hall of Residence in Chiswell Street (5 minutes from the main School building). These are typical student rooms in 3, 4 and 5 bedroomed flats; each flat has a communal kitchen with dining area, shower room and separate toilet. Accommodation in Sundial Court is not available for students below the age of 18 unless they are accompanied by someone over 18. Click here for a list of alternative local accommodation.