Music at Girton
Girton College is unique among Cambridge colleges in the richness and diversity of its musical life. No fewer than six senior members, including several figures of international repute, contribute to its dynamic musical environment. This provides an unusually supportive environment for Music students and, equally, for those non-Music students interested in performance. The special expertise of the college's staff leads to emphases on chamber music, vocal music and, in particular, early music – no other college comes close to Girton in this respect. However, we cater for all sorts of musical interests. The college's musical life is based around a weekly recital series, termly orchestral concerts, and the activities of the prize-winning Chapel Choir; in addition, we host lighter musical events, such as the annual Girton pantomime.
Girton usually admits four students per annum, a higher number than at most other colleges, and those students typically perform substantially above the university average in examinations. We also offer a large number of music awards; these are open to all students, regardless of the subject they study. We provide a number of world-class practice instruments: four grand pianos (including a particularly fine Steinway Model B, considered to be one of the best pianos in Cambridge), a superb Milan Misina double-manual harpsichord (regularly used in concerts and professional recordings), two organs (a small continuo instrument, and a much admired four-manual, mechanical-action Swiss organ, which was installed in 2002). Information about all these topics and more can be found on further pages of the College's website.
For these reasons Girton is, we believe, the ideal place to study or practise music. If you would like to know more, please read on or contact one of the college's officers.