Music at Downing

There is a strong tradition of Music at Downing, with activities ranging from student-organised jazz nights and classical recitals, to workshops, professional concerts, and alumni events organised by the Director of College & Chapel Music.

The College has several venues which are used for concerts and recitals of various kinds, a dedicated Music Centre for practice and rehearsals, and a range of instruments including several grand pianos (including a Steinway). Please click here to read more about our facilities.

Downing College Music Society

DCMS is run by a committee of students, overseen by the Director of College & Chapel Music. They generally organise a musical event of some sort every week during full term: this might be an intimate recital in the beautiful setting of the Master’s lodge, an open mic night in the bar, or a come-and-sing evening in the Chapel.

You can follow the society for news and updates on Facebook and Instagram, or email the President (George Jackson) for more information.

Downing College Jazz Band

The Jazz Band rehearses regularly and plays for a variety of events, including the biennial Downing May Ball, open jam sessions in the JCR, and May Week garden parties. For more information please email the President, Rudi Brujin-Yard.

Music in Chapel

The Chapel Choir, consisting mostly of Downing students, rehearses on Wednesdays, and again on Sundays, followed by Choral Evensong. For more information about the Choir, Organ, and Choral and Organ Awards, please click here.

Griffin Singers

Griffin Singers is a Barbershop group, meeting regularly to sing together. For more information please contact Harry Barker.

Trumpington Street Orchestra

Made up of students from Peterhouse, and Downing, St Catharine’s, Corpus Christi, and Pembroke Colleges, the Trumpington Street Orchestra is non-auditioned, student-led, and rehearses weekly for a termly concert. Contact the President, Anna Grayson, for more information.

Concerts

Most concerts and events are open to the wider community as well as Downing students. If you’d like to be kept up-to-date with what’s on, please email college.music@dow.cam.ac.uk.