The Music Department The Music Department gives pupils access to a wide range of specialist facilities and they study music from many different genres. The emphasis is on the practical however, with pupils trying instruments from a wide range giving them composing and performing experience as well as singing experience. Instruments used include keyboards, glockenspiels and various percussion instruments. Music technology plays a major part in the teaching of the subject in both Key Stages.
The aims of the department are;
• to develop awareness and appreciation of many different styles of music
• to develop pupil confidence and self-esteem through musical performances
• to develop pupil’s musical skills relating to performing and composing
At Key Stage 3 the pupils make extensive use of ICT in music technology. All pupils have access to Cubasis VST & Cubasis SE (computer programs) and a fully integrated digital music recording studio. Through music technology pupils study many different styles and genres of music, e.g. Renaissance, Indian, Jazz, Pop, Baroque and Classical.
At Key Stage 4 pupils concentrate heavily on composing and performing, as this accounts for 75% of the final GCSE grade. All pupils use Cubasis to compose music and use the recording studio to record their performances.
The department offers pupils access to a purpose-built music PC laboratory, Cubasis, digital recording studio and another music room equipped with keyboards, glockenspiels and other percussion instruments. We also offer a range of extra-curricular activities for all pupils including the choir, the school band and an additional GCSE class.
