My Burford - Sean Fankcom

Director of Music – reflects on over 30 year of his journey with Burford School and how he hopes music will remain a valued and lasting part of school life.

I joined Burford in September 1995 at the age of 26, after teaching for three years in London. My wife and I were living there at the time, but we were getting married that summer and wanted to begin a new chapter away from the city. When I came for my interview, we drove down Burford High Street and my wife said, “If you ever get the job here, we’re never moving.” We didn’t. It’s a wonderful place to live and raise a family, and our own children later attended the school.

My role is to shape the vision of the music department. That includes everything from classroom teaching to concerts, ensembles and instrumental lessons. One of the most important aspects of the job is sustainability—making sure the department continues to thrive and that opportunities for students remain strong in the future.

Music has always been an important part of Burford’s ethos. Over the years we have built a wide range of opportunities for students to perform, from orchestras and ensembles to large-scale productions. The department has also grown in terms of resources, particularly our percussion section, which is something few schools can match.

There have been many highlights over the years. Our school musicals, such as Les Misérables and Jesus Christ Superstar, have been particularly memorable. The jazz band has also performed in some incredible places, including the Tower of London Moat for the Queen’s birthday celebrations, and even visited 10 Downing Street.

However, the highlight of each year is the music residential, which I introduced in 1997. It brings together students from Year 7 to Year 13 and creates a fantastic sense of community, with older students supporting younger ones.

Burford is best described in three words: special, unique and encouraging. Music is truly part of the fabric of the school, and it is a privilege to be part of such a vibrant musical community.