Music
We have a large range of performance opportunities for those learning an instrument, such as 2 Big Bands, 2 choirs, orchestra, jazz group, barbershop, pop bands, string, brass and flute groups. We have visiting instrumental teachers on all almost all orchestral instruments as well as piano, voice and drums. Trips regularly go to hear Glyndebourne Touring Opera and Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. We also have visits from professional musicians such as the RAF Central Band and performances from the Two Moors Festival. We are a busy and thriving department.
KS3 Curriculum Content
We cover the three key targets of the National Curriculum – Performing, Composing and Listening. The tasks are varied in terms of the instruments used and the styles covered.
YEAR 7
Subject |
Module content |
Christmas Composition |
Group work to write lyrics, and song about Christmas. Best pieces perform in Christmas concert. Singing in preparation for Year 7 choir in concert. |
Basics of notation and keyboard skills |
Learn the basics of pitch and duration. Play Ode to Joy on keyboard. |
Folk Music |
Characteristics and performance |
Composing using software |
Using Garageband or Reason to create music |
Pop bands |
Work in groups using drums, bass guitar, vocals and keyboard to create versions of I Need a Dollar |
YEAR 8
Subject |
Module content |
Composing |
Write a piece based on a story |
Notation and Keyboard |
Performance of Largo |
Musical Futures |
Perform pop songs as a group |
World Music |
Studying traditions from Africa, India and Japan |
YEAR 9
Subject |
Module content |
The Blues |
Students learn the characteristics of the genre and compose and perform |
Perform Christmas songs |
Work as a band and perform classic hits |
Reinforce knowledge of notation and keyboard skills |
Individually learn to play a piece on keyboard using a range of notes including sharps/flats and syncopated rhythms. Play bass notes/chords with left hand |
Musical Futures |
Students work in bands to create pop songs and versions of hits. |
Composing |
Using a chord sequence for a pop band or using software to create a dance track. |
KS4 Curriculum content
YEAR 10
Subject |
Module content |
Dance Music |
Learn the characteristics of Salsa, waltz, Irish jig etc |
Descriptive music |
Film music, and descriptive pieces. Composing and discussing examples |
My Music |
Composing for your instrument and performing a solo |
YEAR 11
Subject |
Module content |
Shared Music |
Looking at a range of music from Gamelan, classical string quartet, jazz, choral music etc. Perform and learn characteristics. |
Practical Portfolio |
An ensemble performance and composition. |
Creative Task |
Preparation for a timed composition task |
KS5 Curriculum content
We currently use the OCR Board. In Year 12 students study 3 classical and 3 jazz set works. In Year 13 the focus is Film Music. In both years students have to perform a recital to a visiting examiner and compose a piece for several instruments as well as completing technical exercises.
Our ensembles have travelled extensively, visiting many European cities including Prague, Barcelona and Edinburgh. The Big Band has also spread it’s wings further afield and has recently toured Hong Kong and New York.
Several CD’s of the Big Band have been produced, the latest of which – ‘What Next’ is currently available from student reception.
Visiting teachers provide instrumental tuition ranging from brass, woodwind and strings through to piano, drums, guitar and voice. These lessons are taught weekly with each teacher charging a termly fee.
Please click here for further information on lessons, prices are subject to change.
Our ensembles have travelled extensively, visiting many European cities including Prague, Barcelona and Edinburgh. The Big Band has also spread it’s wings further afield and has recently toured Hong Kong and New York.
Several CD’s of the Big Band have been produced, the latest of which – ‘What Next’ is currently available from student reception.
Visiting teachers provide instrumental tuition ranging from brass, woodwind and strings through to piano, drums, guitar and voice. These lessons are taught weekly with each teacher charging a termly fee.
Please click here for further information on lessons, prices are subject to change.