Music
We aim to engage all pupils in musical learning that develops their creativity and resilience. They gain the confidence to express feelings and thoughts and are able to experiment with new musical ideas. We explore a wide variety of musical styles within their world and historical contexts, and aim to introduce students to music they would not otherwise hear. Students will be supported and enabled to create performances of original and known repertoire, using a range of different instruments and technologies. They work collaboratively, experiencing the power of music to draw people together and facilitate positive communication.
| Head of Music | Mrs S Meacham |
|---|---|
| Teachers of Music | Mr T Nichol Mr Power |
| Peripatetic Teachers | John Lavelle Dan Bird Jane Rose Ron Atkinson Adrian Oldland Julia Black Lynsey Tibbs Valeria Blake |
KS3
Students in Years 7, 8, and 9 have one hour of music tuition a week. The music lessons are practical with a focus on peer and self-evaluation and group work. Units studied include Rhythm and Pulse, Keyboard Skills, The Orchestra, Blues, Gamelan and Songs from the Shows.
Learning styles in Year 9 Music lessons particularly focus on the development of independent learning and incorporate many of the features of the informal learning process which has been pioneered during a pilot project with the County Music Service and the Institute of Education at London University (more information at https://www.musicalfutures.org/).
KS4
We study the Edexcel GCSE Music specification. The course has three components: performing, composing and appraising – this includes four areas of study: Instrumental Music 1700 – 1820, Vocal Music, Music for Stage and Screen, Fusions.
Year 10 and 11 Music Curriculum Plan
The course is assessed as follows:
Performing (solo and ensemble) 30% [60 marks].
Students must perform for a minimum of four minutes.
Composing 30% [60 marks].
Students must compose two pieces that together total a minimum of three minutes. One is a free composition and one is a composition to a brief set by the exam board.
Appraising examination 40% [80 marks].
KS5
We study the Edexcel A level Music specification. The course has three components: Performing, Composing and Appraising. This includes the following areas of study: Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Film Music, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusions and New Directions
Year 12 and 13 Music Curriculum Plan
The course is assessed as follows:
Performing 30% [60 marks].
Students must perform a recital of at least 8 minutes as a soloist or as part of an ensemble.
Composing 30% [60 marks].
Free composition – 20% [40 marks]
Free composition: Students must compose either a free composition or a composition linked to a brief set by the exam board lasting a minimum of 4 minutes.
Briefs assessing technique – 10% [20 marks]
Briefs assessing technique: Students will learn how to harmonise a chorale melody in the style of JS Bach. Students will then harmonise one or more chorale melodies in controlled assessment conditions in April/May of the year of certification.
Appraising examination 40% [100 marks].
Useful Links and Resources
FAQs
Does the school offer instrumental/vocal lessons?
Yes. We offer lessons on a wide variety of acoustic and electric instruments. Please see our Music Tuition page.
Are there extra-curricular music clubs?
Yes. We have a Junior Choir (Years 7 – 9), a Senior Choir (Years 10 – 13), a Soul band, and a Rock club. Students form their own bands and make use of the practice rooms in the department. We also put on a musical show every two years.
