Latymer MAT Test and Music Places: A Complete Parent's Guide
If your child is applying to Latymer School for Year 7, understanding the admissions process is essential. While most applicants are considered through the
Latymer MAT Test (Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning), the school also offers a limited number of music places for exceptionally talented young musicians.
In this guide, we'll explain how music places are awarded, what the audition involves, and how the Latymer School entrance exam works alongside the music
admissions process.
What Is the Latymer MAT Test?
The Latymer MAT Test is the first stage of the Latymer School admissions process. It assesses applicants in two key areas:
Mathematics
Verbal Reasoning
Every applicant sits this test, and the results are used to rank candidates for the next stage of the admissions process.
How Many Students Does Latymer School Admit?
Each year, Latymer School admits 192 students into Year 7.
Alongside the standard admissions route, up to 20 places may be offered to applicants who demonstrate exceptional musical ability. However, these applicants must also perform strongly in the Latymer MAT Test.
Who Is Eligible for a Music Place?
Applying for a music place involves more than simply being a talented musician.
To be considered, applicants must:
Rank within the top 700 applicants in the Latymer MAT Test (Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning).
Complete a separate music application form.
Provide supporting evidence of their current musical standard.
Successfully complete the music audition.
Musical ability can be demonstrated on any instrument, including voice.
Although up to 20 music places are available each year, the actual number offered may vary depending on the strength of the applicants.
What Happens During the Latymer Music Audition?
Applicants invited to audition will attend an individual 20-minute audition conducted by members of the Latymer School music department.
Unlike group assessments, each audition is held separately, allowing candidates to demonstrate their musical skills in a supportive environment.
Performance
Applicants perform:
One piece or
Two contrasting pieces
The total performance should last no longer than eight minutes.
Candidates may also choose to perform on a second instrument, although this is optional.
If accompaniment is required, applicants must use the school's official accompanist, who will also rehearse the performance beforehand.
Sight Reading
Applicants will also complete a sight-reading exercise on their main instrument, allowing examiners to assess their musical fluency and reading ability.
Aural Assessment
The audition includes several aural exercises designed to assess musical listening skills. These include:
Singing back a given pitch
Singing back a note from a chord
Singing back a short melody
Clapping back a rhythm
Identifying the time signature
A short sight-singing exercise
It is worth noting that there is no written music theory test as part of the audition process.
How to Prepare for the Latymer MAT Test and Music Audition
Success requires preparation in both academic and musical areas.
Parents should ensure their child:
Builds strong Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning skills for the Latymer MAT Test.
Practises performance pieces confidently.
Develops sight-reading ability.
Improves aural listening skills through regular practice.
Performs in front of others to build confidence before audition day.
Preparing both the academic and musical elements together gives applicants the strongest chance of securing a place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many music places are available at Latymer School?
Latymer School offers up to 20 music places each year, although fewer may be awarded depending on the strength of applications.
Does my child need to pass the Latymer MAT Test to apply for a music place?
Yes. Applicants must rank within the top 700 in the Latymer MAT Test before they can be considered for a music place.
Can my child audition on any instrument?
Yes. Musical ability can be demonstrated on any instrument, including voice.
Is there a written music theory exam?
No. The audition focuses on performance, sight reading and aural skills. There is no written music test.
Final Thoughts
The Latymer MAT Test remains the foundation of the school's admissions process, even for applicants seeking a music place. A strong performance in Mathematics and Verbal Reasoning, combined with excellent musical ability, gives talented young musicians the opportunity to compete for one of the limited music places available each year.
With careful preparation for both the academic assessment and the audition, applicants can approach the admissions process with confidence and give themselves the best possible chance of success.
Click here to explore our MAT resources for expert preparation tips, practice materials, and guidance to help your child succeed in the Latymer Music Aptitude Test (MAT).
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