At first, I suppose to anyone, it seems a daunting prospect joining the largest and most well-known music school in the British Isles. I had been well warned of the demands of the place, lectured severely on the arduous practice routine by, amongst others, my parents, and to someone who had only entered the grounds once to do his audition, it was easy to assume that the school was somehow elitist (just one of the stereotypes applied to those of us on the “inside”). And so, one sunny day in September 2004, I set off down the M74 with my trusty pencil and manuscript, ready to begin life in the big city...
Once arrived, I found that settling into the routines was not as difficult as I had expected. The arrangement of instrumental lessons is a lot easier than it looks once you get used to it (hint: only one or two bits of paper on the board are likely to be relevant to you!). After the first few days, I began to realise I could cope with most of what Chetham’s would be likely to throw at me, and that I was not overawed to be surrounded by hordes of talented musicians.
Boarding at Chetham’s is pretty comfortable once you get used to it. Sure, it takes some getting used to for some of us not used to sharing your room with up to three others, but don’t worry because most of us are in the same boat, and most of us want to get along as much as you do! The level of provision that the boarding houses offer helps as well, so eventually most of us settle into the routine fairly easily. With TV, DVD stock, computer and internet access and both pool and football tables, its pretty good going.
Much is said about the food provided on-site; I have to say I tend to side with the people offering praise; for the most part we get good variety and there’ll be something that you will like amongst the choices at nearly every meal (this coming from someone renowned for being quite a picky eater!).
So, on to free time and another popular stereotype that we don’t have any of it. Well, we do, for most parts of the year anyway. We also have plenty of ways to fill it. It’s great that we have a quality multi-gym, swimming pool, squash courts and yard to play football on, and we’re also lucky enough to get monthly recreational trips (next year I’m hoping the hiking trip takes place in warmer weather!). Socialising-wise, Chetham’s is pretty similar to everywhere else I’ve been in terms of ease of getting on with people and making friends. Although weekdays may sometimes become killers (early mornings and late nights), there’s not really much chance of boredom since there’s always something going on. Before I joined Chetham’s I was expecting a more insular community, but inside it really doesn’t feel that way at all.
Keir Robinson
Lower 6th Form
