Growing musicians, one note at a time
At La Côte International School, music isn’t just a subject—it’s an experience. From early exploration to polished performances, our students learn to turn curiosity into creativity and step forward as confident young performers.
A fully immersive approach
Our music curriculum invites every student to discover their musical side. Whether they’ve been playing for years or are just picking up an instrument for the first time, we believe that everyone has music within them. Through hands-on, immersive lessons, learners are encouraged to dive right in from day one.
Specialist teaching in Primary
At the heart of our Primary School, EYFS and Primary Music Specialist Raphaela Papadakis leads engaging weekly lessons for all students from Foundation 1 to Year 6. The Primary Music Room is a lively, flexible space where learners explore four key elements of music: listening, singing, performing, and composing.
To introduce composition, Ms Papadakis often starts with something simple—like turning a student’s name into a rhythm and experimenting with variations. From there, they begin to add notes and create their own musical phrases.
She also teaches audiation—the skill of imagining music internally before playing it aloud. Students first speak rhythms, then learn to “hear” them silently in their minds. This internalisation makes learning and performing music more intuitive and expressive.
Music also appears throughout the wider Primary curriculum, supporting language learning, cultural understanding, and special celebrations such as Francophone Week. Our Lower and Upper Primary Choirs bring students together at lunchtime rehearsals and perform regularly at school events.
Our collaboration with Juilliard
Through our partnership with the Juilliard School, students gain access to an exceptional range of music—from classical icons like Bach and Schubert to contemporary artists and jazz greats. Learners compose film scores, explore global genres such as samba and musical theatre, and use modern music technology to bring their ideas to life.
This personalised approach helps students develop not only technical skill but also creativity, curiosity, and confidence.
Learning from all angles
Whole-class piano lessons form a key part of our programme, giving students a strong foundation in harmony, coordination, and instrumental technique. These skills deepen their understanding of composition and performance across styles.
We also look at the wider world of music—film scoring, soundscapes, Juilliard-led challenges, and visits to cultural venues like Chaplin’s World in Vevey. Our curriculum reflects growing research showing the positive impact of music on cognitive development, language, memory, and emotional wellbeing.
Where performance comes alive
Our bi-annual Sessions concerts are a highlight of the year. Open to all Primary and Secondary students—beginners and advanced musicians alike—these events celebrate effort, creativity, and progress. Solos, duets, and group performances fill the stage, each one capturing the joy of live music.
Another standout moment is the annual school musical. Secondary students and staff come together as a full live band, rehearsing and performing complete scores with impressive professionalism. It’s an inspiring, high-energy experience that builds real-world musicianship.
Supporting every individual
With choirs, A Capella groups, Band Projects, samba ensembles, and more, there’s space for every student to explore their interests. Our co-curricular programme helps learners discover their own voice and express their individuality through music.
About La Côte International School Aubonne
La Côte International School Aubonne is a premium international school for students aged 3–18, offering personalised learning, academic challenge, and a nurturing environment where every child can thrive. Located between Geneva and Lausanne, we bring together a diverse community and a commitment to helping students flourish in and beyond the classroom.
Ready to learn more?
Interested in discovering how our music programme—and our school as a whole—can inspire your child? Book a visit or speak with our Admissions Team today.
