Statement of Aims:
The department aims to stimulate an interest in and to promote an enjoyment and understanding of music as part of the overall spiritual, moral, cultural and skill development of pupils. Through an emphasis on the development of creativity, self-expression and self-confidence, and the development of knowledge of a variety of eras, styles, genres and cultures, the department strives to ensure pupils achieve their full potential in an environment of opportunity and inclusion.
The department has high expectations and aims for high standards, appropriate levels
of challenge for all pupils and strives for the highest achievement for all pupils.
Accommodation:
The department is housed in a self-contained area of the Lower School building and comprises: two class teaching rooms and three practice rooms. From September 2005 one of the practice rooms will house a computer suite.
Lunchtime Activities:
All lunchtime activities start at 1:35pm. Pupils participating in groups are encouraged to bring a packed lunch which they can eat in the music room, to ensure a prompt start to rehearsals.
Monday: Concert Band
Tuesdays: Choir
Thursdays (alternative weeks) : Jazz Band
All pupils regardless of level of advancement are welcome at all groups.
Pupils are also encouraged to pursue non-teacher directed musical activities and practice rooms can be booked for this purpose – see Mrs Turner.
Performance Opportunities:
There are four main performance events per year: The Carol Service at St. Wilfrid’s Church Calverton, a battle of the bands competition, the GCSE concert and summer concert. Please see the school calendar for dates and times.
Classroom Music:
In Key Stage 3 pupils have one lesson per week and are taught in mixed ability groups.
In music, listening and applying knowledge and understanding are developed trough the interrelated skills of performing, composing and appraising. Pupils are taught how to control sounds, create and develop musical ideas and respond to and review their own music and the music of others.
In Key Stage 4 pupils can opt to take the Edexcel GCSE course, or a non-examination course. At post-sixteen, A/S and A2 are offered.
