Music

Music explores creativity and expression, enabling us to learn and follow rules and conventions and inspiring us to push boundaries and develop new and innovative ideas. Reflecting on the work of others to help us develop our own musicianship.

In today’s society, we have access to a world of music, sound, innovation and inspiration at our fingertips; such a wealth of music has never been so accessible. We are privileged to be able to both study how music has developed historically and to become musicians, performers and composers in our own right.

Music provides students with the opportunity to

Develop instrumental and vocal skills
Learn to compose melodies, harmonies and develop musical ideas
Understand the conventions of music theory and notation
Explore musical innovation and develop experimental composition ideas
Listen and respond to a range of musical styles and genres
Participate in wide range of enrichment activities

Music is an irresistible and invigorating force, stronger than all infinities, which ignites one’s dreams, enthusiasm and confidence.

Ethan, Year 11

Curriculum information:

Year 7
Learning outcomes	Students will be able to read treble clef musical notation. They will develop performance skills using keyboards and ukuleles, and develop knowledge and understanding of the elements of music and how they are used, through composing, performing and appraising.
Topics taught	Elements of music Treble clef notation Instrumental skills Harmony Ensemble performance
Year 8
Learning outcomes	Students will consolidate their notation skills and develop further keyboard skills. They will be able to read and play chords on ukulele, and prepare solo and ensemble performances. Students will compose using music software, and develop appraisal and analytical skills using the elements of music.
Topics taught	Elements of music Treble clef notation Blues music Film music Ensemble performance Music technology
Year 9
Learning outcomes	Students will further consolidate their treble clef notation skills and be able to read bass clef musical notation. They will develop their knowledge and understanding of major and minor chords and use this as a basis for composing and performing work, both as a soloist and in an ensemble.
Topics taught	Chords and riffs Music technology Bass clef notation Cover songs Film music
Year 10
Learning outcomes	Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of music theory, building the skills needed for creative and stylish composition work. They will develop their independent practice skills as they prepare for solo and ensemble performances, and will begin study of the set works in the vocal music, instrumental music and music for stage and screen.
Topics taught	Treble clef notation Bass clef notation Sibelius software skills Melody writing Major and minor chords Extended chords and cadences Vocal music Instrumental music Music for stage and screen
Year 11
Learning outcomes	Students will complete all aspects of their composing and performing controlled assessments. They will complete their analytical study of the final set works in areas of study 2 and 4, and build and consolidate their knowledge and understanding of the set works studied in Year 10.
Topics taught	Composing controlled assessment Solo and ensemble performing controlled assessment Area of study 4: World music Area of study 2: Music in the 20^th Century Exam preparation

Music is not just something to know or learn, it’s something to inspire.

Robbie, Year 7