Music

Why study music?

Music is a universal language that embodies one of the highest forms of creativity. Our music curriculum aims to engage and inspire pupils to develop a love of music and their talent as musicians, and to increase their self-confidence, creativity and sense of achievement. As pupils progress, they will be empowered to develop a critical engagement with music, allowing them to compose, and to listen with discrimination to the best in the musical canon across a wide range of genres. It builds a stronger sense of self-identity, character and cultivates a better tolerance and respect of the diverse cultures that shape the world we live in. 

How will I study music?

Students are given extensive listening opportunities to help develop expressive intentions. They are given space for exploration, inconsistency, and independence. High levels of guidance are given for novices, but productive struggle is encouraged affirming a creative state of flow. Opportunities are given to explore knowledge of musical and performance cultures, genres, traditions and repertoires throughout time, which is part of a broad education and a joy in and of itself. Students develop their singing moving from 2-part unison to 3 and 4-part unison. In each unit students compose their own music and performance and then perform either individually or in an ensemble. 

What will I study at key stage 3?

In Music in each unit of lessons pupils listen to and evaluate music from a range of traditions, cultures, time periods and genres. This supports their own ability to compose and perform. Students begin by composing and performing short melodies using simple chords. This develops into layering with textures and sonorities. Simple chord sequences become groove polyrhythms, complex bass lines. Students study the elements of Music including duration, tempo, timbre, texture pitch and structure. They study staff notation. They explore the impact of note lengths from semibreves to semiquavers, and expression with dynamic markings. They then study critical elements of Samba, Reggae, Blues, twentieth century music and digital music. This is complemented by the study of traditional Japanese and African music. Students develop competency on the keyboard and the ukulele. Students have a narrower instrument choice and consistency of instrument to improve the expressive quality of their sound production. 

What will I study at key stage 4?

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Music is constantly evolving, inspiring creativity and expression in a way that no other subject can. In GCSE Music pupils with have the chance to study a wide range of musical genres, with opportunities for practical learning. The GCSE Music course brings theory, listening and composition to life in new and engaging ways, linking to the world around us. 

We know that every student has different musical tastes and GCSE Music values all music styles, skills and instruments. 

Assessment at Key Stage 4

Enrichment

Pupils can further develop their classwork or learn to play different instruments. 

Careers

Music can lead to future careers ranging from becoming a video game composer or sound designer, artist, composer or sound engineering technician. 

Useful Resources and Revision Support

• BBC Bitesize
• YouTube
• Hooktheory.com