Music at Mayo College: A Legacy of Learning and Innovation

Music has been an integral part of life at Mayo College for generations, shaping young minds and nurturing talent across Indian classical, military, and Western music traditions. Under the guidance of esteemed music maestros, boys embark on a melodious journey that fosters discipline, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the art.

The Heart of Music – Our Music School

Centrally located between the Junior and Senior Schools, the Music School stands as a testament to our commitment to musical excellence. Inaugurated by Padma Vibhushan Pt. Jasraj, Sangeet Martand, on 19th November 2006, this vibrant space replaced the former Indian Music School, now the Yoga Centre. To further enhance learning, a dedicated music space has also been established at the Junior School.

A Rich Musical Heritage

• Indian Classical Music has been a cherished tradition at Mayo College for more than a century.
• Brass Band was introduced in 1993, bringing discipline and grandeur to ceremonial events.
• Western Music became part of our curriculum in 1997, adding a global dimension to our musical repertoire.

A Boy’s Musical Journey

Every boy at Mayo begins his musical education with the Descant Recorder and Vocals — both Indian and Western. As they progress, they have the opportunity to choose from a vast array of instruments or receive vocal training.

Over 600 boys learn music each year, either as a subject or a hobby.

Beyond school programs, students can pursue Hindustani Music as a CBSE subject (Classes 9–12) or appear for prestigious examinations from:

• Pracheen Kala Kendra, Chandigarh (Indian Classical Music)
• Trinity College of Music, London (Western Music)

Instruments Taught at Mayo College

Our Music School offers training in an unparalleled variety of more than 60 instruments, including:

• Keyboard & Strings – Piano, Violin, Guitar, Ukulele, Sitar, Sarod
• Percussion – Drum Set, Tabla, Cajon, Timpani, Jaltarang
• Brass & Woodwinds – Saxophone, Trumpet, Clarinet, French Horn, Concert Flute
• Unique Indian & Folk Instruments – Harmonium, Flute, Bulbul Tarang, Pakhawaj, Madhal, Bhapang

Music Clubs & Bands at Mayo College

Music at Mayo College thrives through various clubs and bands, offering students a platform to explore diverse musical styles and performance experiences:

• The Bugle Band – A prestigious marching band adding grandeur to ceremonial occasions.
• The Recorder Band – A foundation group where young students learn the fundamentals of music.
• Top Corps, College Brass Band – Established in 1993, this powerful ensemble performs at formal events.
• Penta Songsters, College Choir – A choral group showcasing Western and Indian vocal harmonies.
• The Arpeggios, College Rock Band – A high-energy band performing rock and contemporary music.
• The Indian Orchestra – A classical ensemble bringing the rich traditions of Hindustani music to life.
• The Fusion Band – A unique blend of Military, Indian and Western instruments creating mesmerizing performances.

Prize Giving Concert – A Grand Celebration of Talent

One of the most anticipated musical events at Mayo College is the Prize Giving Concert, where over 550 boys showcase the skills they have developed throughout the year. This grand event brings together instrumentalists, vocalists, and various bands, creating an unforgettable symphony of talent and hard work. It is a true celebration of the school's rich musical culture and artistic achievements.

Beyond Prize Giving, boys also get opportunities to perform at various inter-school competitions, cultural festivals, and annual events, further honing their confidence and stage presence.

Social Service Through Music

Beyond performances, music at Mayo College extends to social service initiatives, spreading joy and healing through melody. The Music School actively engages in projects at:

• Old Age Homes – Offering solace and companionship through soothing musical performances.
• Children with Special Needsand Impairments – Using music as a therapeutic tool to uplift and inspire.

These projects instill empathy, responsibility, and a deeper sense of purpose among students, proving that music has the power to transform lives.

A Hub for Creativity & Innovation

The Mayo Recording Studio provides students with hands-on experience in:

• Music Production
• Songwriting & Composition
• Recording Techniques

Mayo College doesn’t just teach music—it inspires innovation! Our students integrate music with other subjects, designing and building their own musical instruments. One of our most celebrated projects is “Music from Trash,” where students create instruments from discarded materials to raise awareness about plastic waste and sustainability.

This project gained international recognition on the IBSC (International Boys’ Schools Coalition) website and was featured in the documentary "Great Indian Residential Schools of India" on Hotstar TV.

At Mayo College, music isn’t just a subject—it’s a way of life. Whether performing on stage, composing original pieces, or experimenting with new sounds, our boys develop skills that stay with them forever.

Where words fail, music speaks. Welcome to the Mayo College Music School—where every note tells a story!

Following instruments are being taught at the Music School: