CYPRUS MUSIC SERVICE
The Cyprus Music Service commenced in the Autumn Term of 1999 and now consists
of a Head of Service and three full time peripatetic instrumental teachers. Tuition is
provided on a variety of instruments with specialist teachers of Woodwind, Brass and
String instruments. However, should timetabling , staffing and schools permit we
consider applications for other instruments, including voice.
There are two centres for the Music Service ESBA and WSBA, this is necessary to
accommodate the distance between the schools, on the various military bases on the
island. The main administrative area for the Cyprus Music Service is at the WSBA
centre based at St John’s School , Episkopi. The ESBA centre is based at King
Richard School. The accommodation at the ESBA centre consists of two teaching
rooms and a rehearsal area.
The instrumental tuition comes as a ‘package’ consisting of two main elements:
• weekly lessons in small groups, or individually on their chosen instrument
• involvement in a Music School which meets weekly at the centre in their
Sovereign Base Area
Music School provides the opportunity for pupils to further develop their skills at an
appropriate level. It is here that the pupils will experience playing in larger bands,
orchestras and other instrumental ensembles. Each term we have joint Music Schools
to enable all the musicians of the Music Service to perform together.
Each centre has a Concert Band and at ESBA we perform regularly at a variety of
functions. These have included Church Services, Christmas Concerts and Christmas
Fairs. The Concert Bands also tour the island to perform for all the schools in the
Sovereign Base Areas, and have successfully performed for the annual ABF Concert in
the amphitheatre at St John’s School.
The musicians also have the opportunity to perform with the Music Services from
Germany, when exchange visits are organised to develop both musical and social
skills. There is also the opportunity to attend the Music Camp in the Troodos
Mountains, where music workshops are organised to improve and develop skills.
Pupils are encouraged to take Associated Board Royal Schools of Music
examinations, when they have achieved an appropriated level. These take place twice
a year in October/November and April/May.
Parents are always welcome to attend rehearsals and are cordially invited to attend
the end of term and Music Camp concerts. Pupils receive an annual report and
parents are invited to regular parent consultations.
