For parents of talented musical children, the quality, profile, opportunities and individual nurturing offered by the Music Department is a vital consideration in their choice of a senior school.
A school in which music thrives demonstrates not only its commitment to the development of pupils’ creativity but also to their cultural awareness and the fundamental life skills of self-discipline and teamwork which musical activity brings.
At Cranleigh we are passionate about the importance of music in the development of well-rounded individuals, but not to the exclusion of all else. You will find Cranleighans developing their musical talents alongside a well-balanced academic curriculum and a wide range of other creative and sporting activities. Every pupil is offered a vast number of musical opportunities to fulfil his or her individual potential, whether that may be participation in a large choir, in a rock band, or as a soloist with a professional symphony orchestra.
I am always delighted to meet keen musicians and potential music scholars for an informal pre-audition at any time of the year.
Do read the tabs above regarding musical life at Cranleigh, and better still come and see us. There is a “sign up” form on the right hand side of this page if you would like to be added to our regular newsletter detailing forthcoming events and reviews.
I hope you will see that music lies at the very heart of Cranleigh, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Director of Music
E-mail: Mr R J SaxelBA, Dip.RAM, LRAM, ARAM
Mr Richard Saxel has been Director of Music since September 2019, but has taught Music at Cranleigh since 2001, previously as Head of Performance. He combines teaching at Cranleigh School with a successful career as an international concert pianist, and has performed, recorded and broadcast around the world to critical acclaim, and with a wide variety of musicians. He studied Music with History of Art at the University of York and Piano Accompaniment at the Royal Academy of Music, which recently awarded him Associateship in recognition of his significant contribution to the music profession.
Mr Saxel teaches the A level syllabus, composition to lower year groups, oversees all aspects of Performance, and enjoys working with young musicians at the Prep School. He also teaches the EPQ, specialising in Performance Projects, and is a tutor in Rhodes House, having many years’ experience of being a tutor in girls’ boarding houses. Mr Saxel is married to Dr Saxel (Deputy Head, Pastoral) and they have two daughters, and a menagerie of animals at home. When he has time, he is a keen golfer who aspires to playing off a single-figure handicap.