Music
The music department has 2 teaching rooms, one a fully equipped music technology suite. In addition, we have our own professionally fitted recording studio. There are 2 full-time music teachers, a technician and 9 visiting instrumental teachers.
Aims
The music department aims to develop pupils’ musical awareness and understanding with great emphasis placed on performing and composing.
What will I study?
At Key Stage 3, pupils study a variety of themes covering music from different styles, periods of listening and parts of the world. Themes range from The Blues, Film Music, Musical Notation, Reggae and many more.
How will I study?
Most lessons will involve practical music making using a variety of instruments and computers. Pupils also listen to music and learn how to read simple notations and apply this to their performing and composing.
“Music is very interesting because we have the privilege of having lots of instruments which the teachers let us play on.”
Thomas Moore, Year 8
How will I be monitored and assessed?
Pupils are given a target grade at the beginning of each year. At the end of each theme pupils usually perform their work and this is assessed by the teacher and sometimes through peer assessment. Work is also regularly reviewed and discussed in lessons.
What will happen in KS4?
At Key Stage 4 pupils can opt to take GCSE music or the NCFE certificate in music technology. In GCSE music, pupils concentrate on the three core aspects of music - composing, listening and performing. They will undertake different areas of study covering a range of musical styles. The music technology course introduces pupils to recording techniques, audio sequencing, multi-track recording and other equipment, as well as job roles in the music technology industry.