From the start of construction in July 2012 to completion in December 2013, the new Music School at Stowe was one of the most ambitious development project at Stowe - indeed it is arguably the most important new building at the School since the opening of the Chapel in the 1920s.
Anthony Wallersteiner, Headmaster, explains the context for the project: "Music has always been an important part of life at Stowe since the great Dr Leslie Huggins, the School’s first Director of Music between 1929 and 1952. Now, with an outstanding orchestra, wind, brass and jazz bands, chamber ensembles and string quartets, choral society, chapel choir and numerous rock groups, Stoics are encouraged to explore the widest range of musical creativity. Our ambition has been to create one of the very finest Music Schools in the country."
At the heart of our vision for the building lay the philosophy of 'Music for Everyone', brought to life through facilities and spaces that would allow musicians of all levels, interests and disciplines to enjoy, listen, learn and perform.
Stowe is greatly indebted to the many individual donor and grant-giving organisations who have contributed nearly £4 million to the 'Music for Everyone' Appeal. Without their belief and support for our vision, the Music School would never have become reality. Their generosity, in part, has allowed us to realise our ambition to become one of the very few 'All Steinway' schools in the UK. All 24 pianos in the Music School are Steinway pianos: from the upright pianos in each practice and teaching room, to the 'Model D' concert grand piano in the Recital Hall.
We look forward to attracting the finest touring musicians, to welcoming the local community to Stowe for concerts - and to establishing Stowe as a national centre for musical excellence and opportunity.