The Derby School of Music was founded in 1885 by Arthur Francis Smith,.

The music school operates on a private basis and has always taught most of the mainstream instruments including piano, violin, singing, guitar etc.

Arthur Francis Smith was keen to showcase the students abilities and would regularly put on public performances at local venues in Derby in order for students to gain valuable performance experience, this tradition has carried on at the music school to the present day.

Derby school of music has also produced many of the countries leading organists.

[citation needed] Derby school of music are regular judges at the TeenStar,[9][10][11] Open Mic UK[12] and Live and Unsigned competitions.