Why is Music important?
Music education opens opportunities, but it is not simply a means to an end: it is also an end in itself. It gives children and young people an opportunity to express themselves, to explore their creativity, to work hard at something, persevere and shine. These experiences and achievements stay with them and shape their lives. Moreover, music plays a key role in brain development: it helps to develop language, motor skills, emotional intelligence and collaboration skills.
In the Music department, we recognise the vital role that music plays in education.
From year 7, students are actively engaged in singing, performing, listening and composing (including using music technology), making learning a fun and enriching experience. They collaborate in ensembles, learning valuable concepts such as accuracy, timing, technique, and teamwork.
Our curriculum covers a wide range of musical genres, including pop, the blues, hip-hop, musicals, Baroque music, and traditional West African djembe drumming.
Preparation for the Future: For those who choose to study GCSE in Music at Key Stage 4, the program offers opportunities to further develop skills in performing, composing, and understanding music. At Key Stage 5, we offer A Level Music and Level 3 BTEC Music to prepare students for university studies or the workplace. These programs emphasise critical thinking, resilience, and source engagement.
What does a good student look like?
We encourage students to harness their creativity and develop technical proficiency. Students will be able to perform on an instrument (and/or voice), with increasing accuracy, technical skill, expression and independence. Good students will be intrinsically motivated to improve and contribute to a range of musical experiences and be able to work as both an individual and as part of a wider ensemble.
Students will listen to a wide range of music and understand how music has been created around in different cultures and through time. This will include an understanding of the musical elements and how they can be used and manipulated to perform and create music in different styles and for different purposes.
A good student will get involved with musical opportunities outside of lessons such as the school band, production, choir, Rock School, samba drumming or jazz group. They will get involved with events to showcase their creations.
What can I do at home to help me achieve in this subject?
Practise: Regular practice on your chosen instrument or with your voice will improve your skills and confidence.
Extracurricular opportunities: the more you get involved, the more fulfilment you will get from engaging with music. There are activities on at lunch times and after school – there’s something to suit everybody whether that’s singing, performing with the school band, playing rock covers on the guitar or as an absolute beginner as part of a drumming group.
Exploration: Explore various musical styles and genres beyond what’s covered in class. Listen to music, attend concerts, and broaden your musical horizons.
Music Software: If possible, experiment with music software for composing and arranging. This will help you develop your technical skills.
Collaboration: Form musical collaborations with friends or family members. Jamming together or composing as a group can be both fun and educational. KS4: Regular practice of exam-style questions (using Focus on Sound) will help prepare you for the component 3 exam.