Music

Intent

Music is often mistaken as something we simply listen to, however music provides an all-encompassing experience, invigorating and enticing all of the senses at once.  Learning to play music is the only activity known to stimulate and utilize every part of your brain at once.  ‘Music is a universal language that embodies one of the highest forms of creativity’ (National Curriculum).  Music education makes it possible to engage and inspire children to develop a love of music from all cultures and traditions, as well as their own musical skills.  

As a subject, Music teaches children about the world around us, and the traditions of different cultures and societies; as well as places and times.  It also reveals where the music they listen to and love comes from and how it was created. By learning to perform individually and in groups it helps to increase their self-confidence, creativity and sense of achievement, as well as increasing their cooperation, concentration and communication skills.

Implementation

Music at Key Stage 3 is taught through independent workshop sessions throughout the year and developed through individual sessions on request.  During the workshops, students will engage with Music both practically and theoretically, developing a range of musical skills, knowledge and techniques. They develop valuable skills to support them in all other curriculum areas too.  Students are taught practical performance and composition skills, music theory and knowledge of rhythm and beats from different cultures.

The curriculum introduces students to the key devices and processes used in Music making and creating, encouraging students to think outside the box and develop an understanding of music from different periods and cultures worldwide.

Workshops include:

Song writing- Composing and learning about theory behind the music industry.

Samba-Learning a traditional Brazilian piece of music using Samba percussion instruments

Beats and Rhythm- Enhancing rhythmic and improvisational skills

Develop listening skills- Developing ability to work in an ensemble

Develop confidence through performing

Impact

Music focuses on improving not only performance skills, confidence and an appreciation of all types of music and cultures. The workshops are an exciting, creative and enlightening experience where students perform and develop skills which will aid them in many future careers.

What kind of skills does Music develop?

·         Group work and inter-personal skills

·         Self-confidence and expression                           

·         Communication and co-ordination skills

·         Creative and evaluative skills

Extra-Curricular Opportunities:

Autumn Term: Shakespeare Schools Festival, the Christmas Show and the Churchmead Christmas Service.

Spring Term: The Spring Show and Choir. (Churchmead participates in the Royal Albert Hall performance in March)

Summer Term: The Summer Show and Choir.

Music and Performing Arts turns to Social Media!

The Performing Arts department have recently created a Twitter account: @ChurchmeadPerf1

This account will contain details of upcoming rehearsals, performances and theatre opportunities as well as revision information and ask the expert sessions.

The department would like to encourage all pupils and parents that use twitter to follow this account.