Music

Music is one of my favourite subjects. I have always enjoyed performing. There have been many opportunities to further my technique and understanding of my instrument. Also, the lessons in history and theory have helped me to understand the development of music and many of the styles in which music can be played.

Studying AS-level music has been huge step up from GCSE, with a much more in-depth knowledge of theory, harmony and history required. All this has been taught really well and has been very interesting to look at.

Each year, A- and AS-level groups have a trip to one of the “musical hotspots” of the UK, and the programme is always interesting and varied, and great fun!

Year 12 Student 

The Music Department is busy and lively, both in class and in extra-curricular activities. Many musical genres and styles are covered in all Key Stages, from popular music cultures and world folk traditions through to Western Classical Music. Students learn musical skills and understand theoretical aspects through practical music making. Students have access to a wide variety of instruments and specialist computer software in each classroom.

Key Stage 3

Students develop their musical skills through a curriculum, which allows students from all musical backgrounds to cover the necessary aspects of the National Curriculum. All topics are taught with an integrated approach to the three disciplines of performance, composition and listening and appraising.

Key Stage 4

Students follow EDEXCEL Music to GCSE Level.

EDEXCEL Music

30% Performance, examined through recorded coursework

30% Composition, examined in timed conditions

40% Listening and Appraising, examined through a 1 ½ hour paper

 

Key Stage 5

Student follow EDEXCEL Music to AS or A Level.

EDEXCEL Music

AS:  

  • 30% Performance, examined through recorded coursework
  • 30% Composition, examined in timed conditions based on a pre-released composition brief
  • 40% Developing Musical Understanding, examined through a 2 hour paper

A2:   

  • 30% Extended Performance, examined through recorded coursework
  • 30% Composition and Technical Study, examined in timed conditions based on a pre-released composition brief
  • 40% Further Musical Understanding examined through a 2 hour paper

 

Enrichment Opportunities

Musical Ensembles

Numerous concerts are held throughout the year to celebrate the students’ progress. The music department are really proud that so many students are willing and able to take part in the many extra-curricular activities and events that take place throughout the year.

If students receive instrumental tuition through the school, there is an expectation that they will participate in at least one ensemble.

  • Orchestra - open to all (grade 3+) string, woodwind, brass and percussion players
  • Concert Band – open to all (grade 3+) woodwind, brass and percussion players
  • Senior Choir – open to Yr 10 – 13 students
  • Junior Choir – open to Yr 7 – 9 students
  • Jazz Band – open to all saxophone, trumpet, trombone, guitar (rhythm, lead and bass), piano and percussion players
  • Brass Band – open to all brass and percussion players
  • Flute Ensemble – senior flute ensemble
  • Flute Band – junior flute ensemble
  • Clarinet Ensemble
  • Percussion Ensemble
  • String Ensemble
  • Junior Band (beginners to grade 3)
  • Gospel Choir

 

In addition to the above the following ensembles are currently run or have been run in the past by A Level students:

  • Chamber Quartet
  • Saxophone Ensemble
  • Musical Theatre Group

 

The music department direct and produce a quality full scale musical production on a regular basis. In the past we have performed shows at The Willows Arts Centre in Corby and shows have included: Les Miserables; The Wizard of Oz; Anything Goes and Grease. The show is performed towards the end of the academic year. Students who wish to take part and who would like a singing part will be required to commit to choir.

 

Trips and Visits

  • KS3 - workshops held throughout the year to enhance the curriculum (subject to availability) – Latin-American Music, Bhangra and African Drumming
  • KS4 - workshops and visits to enhance the curriculum and musical skills
  • KS5 – a visit to London or Birmingham. In each visit students undertake a practical workshop and see a lunchtime recital and evening concert or production


 

Mr Pat Andrews – Head of Faculty

Miss Amelia Cole – Head of Department

Ms Hilary Miles – Music AST

Mrs Jeanette Wilson – Music Teacher