Cambridge has a vibrant music scene with opportunities for everyone, whether you're studying music, play to a high level, or are just getting started with your first instrument. These activities develop skills from communication to organisation while providing a creative outlet and helping you make new friends.
If you're already involved in music activities, use this page and the Skills Glossary to think about which skills you're developing, or evaluate your skills with the Skills Discovery Tool.
Music opportunities at Cambridge
Performance and ensembles
Cambridge offers numerous opportunities to perform music, from casual jam sessions to formal concerts. There are many fun groups open to anyone, such as the Ceilidh Band and Show Choir – if you’ve ever wished you could be on Glee, this is your chance! There’s also plenty of opportunities to audition for those with existing music skills, from the flagship Cambridge University Orchestra to the Cambridge University Opera Society. College choirs can offer a particularly enriching experience, combining regular singing with social activities, formal dinners and international tours.
Being part of choirs, orchestras or bands develops your collaboration and social skills as you work together and make new friends. Regular rehearsals will build your time management abilities and resilience, while performing in front of audiences develops your self-confidence and composure under pressure.
Forming a new band or ensemble provides opportunities to demonstrate your creativity and originality skills while developing your abilities in leadership and taking initiative.
Learning and development
Taking music lessons demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and develops persistence and self-motivation as you work to improve your skills. Learning a new instrument or advancing your existing abilities requires patience, goal-setting and regular practice - all valuable transferable skills.
Many Colleges offer grants to support music lessons, so look at your College website or ask your tutor to see what funding might be available.
Committee roles
Taking on committee roles in music societies develops your leadership, organisation and event management skills. As a committee member, you'll build collaboration abilities working alongside other students, and demonstrate accountability as you help deliver concerts, social events and society activities. Different roles will draw on different skills - as Treasurer, you would practice financial literacy and budget management, while a Publicity Officer would develop marketing, graphic design and communication skills.
How to get involved
The Centre for Music Performance is Cambridge's central hub supporting all students to engage with music activities. Their website lists all the musical societies and groups across the University, with information about skill levels and requirements.
Create a profile on the CMP Hub to access:
- Advertised music events and concerts around Cambridge
- Performance opportunities, including for paid performances
- Directory of music teachers
- Instrument and sheet music hire
- Resources for bands and ensembles
If you’re interested in being part of a band or orchestra for theatre and opera productions, you can find calls for musicians on Camdram.
Once you’re involved in the music scene at Cambridge, you’ll likely find many informal opportunities for musical collaboration and performance.