The broad aim of the music programme is to encourage as many pupils as possible to experience the pleasure and benefits of practical music. To this end, the school subsidises the best peripatetic staff to teach whatever instruments are not offered by the full time teachers. Pupils are offered opportunities in choral singing, as well as the full range of orchestral instruments. Hilton enjoys a friendly relationship with the music departments of schools in the area, and collaborative activities occur on a regular basis. The Music Block is easily accessible and houses music technology facilities, an audio visual centre, a recording studio, percussion room and ample private practice rooms.

The staff of the Hilton College Music Department have a unique blend of talents and skills.  Having studied widely in their areas of expertise, and having performed all around the world, at various levels, they are well equipped to manage the music department and its various divisions.

Jaco Dippenaar - Director of Music, Vocal Music and Choir
After six years as Head of Music Department at the Outeniqua High School and two years as assistant conductor at the Drakensberg Boys Choir School, Jaco Dippenaar was appointed as Choirmaster and Organist at Hilton College in 2004. He was appointed as Director of Music at the beginning of 2007.

Brett Udal - Instrumental music and Ensembles, Violin
Brett was a member of the New Arts Philharmonic Orchestra in Pretoria performing in a variety of different concert programs and was selected for Chamber Orchestra master classes with Lord Yehudi Menuhin and Franz Welser-Möst, the principal conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra. He was Head of Music in the boy’s college of St Stithian's, and has been an ad-hoc member of the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra, playing seasonal symphonic concerts and other gala concerts, such as The Three Tenors Concert and Nelson Mandela’s 85th birthday celebration. He held the post of Director of Music at Beaulieu College in Midrand for 3 years, and his particular teaching interest lies in presenting music as a dynamic 21st century subject option, with the emphasis on innovative technology.

Albi Odendaal is a Capetonian pianist who studied at UCT with Francois du Toit with whom he also completed his Masters degree in Performance. He is responsible for most of the administrative functions of the department which include controlling the Music Library and the Recording studio as well as all the accompaniments for concerts, examinations and competitions.

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