MORE MUSIC EXPERTISE AT CITY CAMPUS

City Campus welcomes Ms Margaret Young to its music department, and is delighted to enjoy the benefits of her 30 years of teaching experience.  Read on to hear Ms Young’s story, and what she loves about the role of music at City Campus:

What is your nationality and background? 
I am a Lancashire lass, having lived the majority of my life in a rural village in the northwest of England. Music has always been an extremely important part of my life. I started to play the violin aged 4, and then the clarinet at 5. Playing trios with my father and sister was a regular part of family life.

After gaining my Grade 8 awards at the age of 10, I started my formal music education as a Junior of the Royal Northern College of Music where I also developed a love for composition and conducting. On leaving college, I married my childhood sweetheart and started a teaching business, Ribble Academy of Music, whilst performing as Solo Clarinet in the Lancashire Artillery Band and in a professional wind quintet, Ensemble Elan. 

What inspired you to become a teacher? What do love about teaching?
Both of my parents were primary school teachers and encouraged me to start teaching clarinet and violin from quite a young age. Even though I have now been teaching for over 30 years, I still feel extremely privileged to be an integral part of a child’s musical experience and development.

What do you consider to be your greatest successes in your teaching career so far?
Having taught for a number of years I have been very lucky to see several past students develop into extremely successful musicians, who have gone on to work in the industry and live their musical dreams. As a director of Music, I have had the fantastic experience of conducting musical performances all over the world - including a residency at Westminster Abbey.

How and when did you find yourself in Bangkok?
After teaching in a boarding school in the UK for 14 years, I was ready for a new and exciting adventure. One of my daughters, who also teaches at Shrewsbury encouraged me to make the move to Bangkok. I was a little nervous about relocating in one of the most vibrant cities in the world, but I am so glad that I took that chance as both Charlie, my son in Year 5, and I are absolutely loving the friendly culture, food and, of course, the fabulous weather!
 
What most excites you about your new role at City Campus? What are your plans for the Music department at City Campus?
Being a part of a developing and progressive school like City Campus is a hugely exciting prospect, particularly as a Music teacher. During the recent lockdown, I watched the school’s virtual recitals and was amazed by the musical talent which there is amongst our students. The Music department here is exceptional and I am very much looking forward to helping the music provision to develop. My plans are to see as many children engaged in music making, irrespective of age or ability, with ensembles which cater for all styles from Bach through to Beyonce. I would like to see more performances, house-led music festivals and maybe even an Arts Week with visiting performers, when it is safe to do so. 

And finally, what do you like to do when you’re not working?
Back in the UK I had 3 cocker spaniel dogs with which I enjoyed long walks in the countryside and on the beach. I also have a horse who is currently living with my eldest daughter. I have now made it my mission to discover all the wild and beautiful parts of Thailand (but not to adopt any of the wildlife as pets)!

Shrewsbury City Campus is currently accepting applications for Early Years and other selected year groups for August 2021. For more information, please contact admissions-city@shrewsbury.ac.th.