New Director of Music

Mr Bluff has been appointed as our new Director of Music

James Bluff studied at the Royal College of Music, before completing a PGCE at St. John’s College, Cambridge. His teaching career began at King Edward VI Grammar School, Chelmsford, where he had the opportunity to lead several music ensembles, including founding the KEGS Big Band. In addition to developing his music pedagogy, he also spent some time as a Head of House. James then moved to Chigwell in 2023, initially as a teacher of music before becoming Head of Academic Music, until he recently took the position of Director of Music. In his time at Chigwell School, James has enjoyed the opportunity to direct some of the premier music ensembles, particularly running ‘Jazz nights’ with the Big Band, and conducting various groups during performances at the Cadogan Hall. He was also the Musical Director of the school production of ‘Made in Dagenham’ in 2024.

Alongside teaching, James maintains an active freelance music career, playing the trombone, piano, and organ, as well as singing and conducting. Regular engagements include playing and singing for church services and accompanying local amateur choirs.

James reflects, "I am excited to take over as Director of Music in a department that has flourished for many years under the leadership of Mr Ebden. Having been at Chigwell for nearly two years now, I have seen the importance of Music in the students’ lives, in a social and creative capacity. This is particularly demonstrated through the large engagement in the cocurricular choirs and ensembles on offer. With the support of the excellent team of teaching staff and Visiting Music Teachers, I am keen to expand Chigwell’s music provision, maintaining its excellent reputation as a leading school for music in the area. I also look forward to further collaborating with the Drama department in the production of musicals, having seen the success of several productions in the last two years. My priority is to ensure every student can reach their full musical potential within the supportive, high-standard environment of the Chigwell Music Department."