Why study music?
To develop understanding and appreciation of a wide variety of musical styles from the Western World and other cultures To develop the key musical skills
To develop team working skills through paired, group, and whole class activities
To develop self-confidence through performance
To develop coordination skills
Career Opportunities In Music & Performing Arts
Music Promotion
Music Publishing
Film Industry
Theatre
DJ-ing
Music Therapy
Teaching
Broadcasting - TV and Radio
Recording Industry - performing, composing, producing, mixing, sound engineering
Our Aims
To offer equal opportunities for music activities to all students
To broaden the students’ view and understanding of music
To provide opportunities for students to express ideas and show creativity
To develop students’ appreciation of a variety of music from different styles and cultures
To develop an understanding of different cultures through music exploration and study
To enable students to become more independent learners
The Course
Key Stage 3
All students in years 7, 8 and 9 study music for one hour a week. Within KS3 students develop skills and understanding through Performing, Composing, Listening and Appraising. Students have a mainly practical music experience, working within a wide variety of styles, including Film music, Blues, Jazz, Reggae, Calypso, Indian Music, Latin American, Rap and Hip Hop, 1960s Pop and 20th Century Classical Music.
As well as developing keyboard, guitar, percussion, singing and aural skills, students also have the opportunity to use music ICT facilities and some of the latest sequencing software.
Key Stage 4
At KS4 students follow the AQA GCSE course. This is split into four equal sections: Performance, Composition, Listening and a special composition Integrated Assignment that includes aspects of performance and evaluation. Each section is related through exploration of 5 areas of study: Dance, Music, Orchestral Landmarks, Music for Special Occasions, Film Music and Pop music since 1960. Music ICT plays a major part in the composition elements of the course. All students are encouraged to take individual tuition on voice or an instrument.
Extra Curricular Groups
The following opportunities for music making exist outside lessons:
Choir; Wind Band; Orchestra; Jazz Group; Clarinet Group; String Quartets; Chamber Choir; Pop & Rock Bands.
Instrumental TuitionThere are 10 visiting peripatetic teachers providing individual tuition on the following instruments:
Brass: Trumpet; Trombone; Tuba; Euphonium; Baritone; Tenor Horn
Strings: Violin; Viola; ‘Cello; Double Bass
Woodwind: Clarinet; Oboe; Bassoon; Flute
Reeds: All saxophones
Guitar: Steel Strung; Spanish, Electric; Bass
Piano and keyboard
Singing
Events
Within the year the music department organises or contributes to the following events:
Christmas Concert
Senior Citizens Concert
Music Cabaret
Battle of the Bands
School Musical or Play
Various outside events
Departmental Staff Members:
Subject Leader: Mr R Whale
Teaching Staff: Mrs K Carter