Music has played an important role at BSG since its foundation as we sought to bring to our community the strong tradition of musical excellence found in many schools in the UK. Learning a musical instrument or simply appreciating a broader range of music not only develops the mind and spirit in unique ways but also provides a source of joy and satisfaction that can last a lifetime.

In addition to the standard music curriculum, all pupils in Early Years and Primary will learn within their class a different musical instrument each year. This gives every child the opportunity to discover an instrument that they enjoy. More than a third of students will also take individual instrumental lessons in one or more instruments.

The school currently has two choirs and they have performed extensively within the local community, including at The Garden Hotel, The China Hotel and other events in and around the city. BSG hosted the first International Schools’ Choral Festival in 2010 which was a huge success, students producing fantastic performances on the night.

Instrumental playing is also of a very high standard and many students go on to take the ABRSM and Trinity College music examinations at the Xinghai Concert Hall. The school has an established band, orchestra and a range of many other student-led ensembles, all contributing to school events, as well as performances in the local community. Most recently, instrumentalists performed at the French Chamber of Commerce’s King’s Cake festival in Tianhe.

Students in every key stage also have the opportunity to take to the stage and combine their dramatic, dance and musical talents in school musicals. Most recently Foundation students staged a modern twist on the traditional nativity, Key Stage 1 gave us a sparkling rendition of Hansel and Gretel, Key Stage 2 gave us a hilarious version of Little Red Riding Hood, and the Secondary School staged a gruesome and funny performance of Dracula Spectacula. All students are encouraged to showcase their talents, whether it be on the stage itself, or backstage in organising these shows and a busy schedule of concerts and performances ensures that all musicians have many opportunities to display their abilities and gain confidence.