With three orchestras, two bands, four choirs and numerous smaller ensembles ranging from Flute groups to a Rock Group, Chigwell has a thriving music department which is always buzzing with activity. Located in the Walde Music School which has two classrooms, six practice rooms and a purposely set up drum room, the department, consisting of three full time members of staff, 23 instrumental specialists and an administrator, is dedicated to encouraging as many pupils as possible to be involved in music making.

Music scholarships are offered each year at 11+ and sometimes at 16+ and these make a substantial contribution to school fees. In return, scholars are expected to play a full role in the performing life of the department. Currently, two scholars attend the Junior Guild Hall of Music on Saturdays.

All pupils study music up to and including the Removes (Year 9), and pupils can opt to study GCSE, AS and A Level after this (all EDEXCEL syllabus). There are facilities in one of the classrooms for up to 15 pupils to use specialist computer software such as Sibelius and Cubase and all pupils are introduced to this at Key
Stage 3.

Extra-curricular music never stops at Chigwell and pupils benefit from the many performing opportunities, whether in a year prom, a more formal school concert, in a service, in the Young Musician of the Year Competition, or in the annual concert at the Walthamstow Assembly Halls.