Music

Music is an integral part of the life of the school and enjoys strong support from staff and students. All boys receive curriculum music lessons in Years 7-9 and from then on there are options to study GCSE and A Level music.

We aim to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of musical concepts through listening, performing, evaluating, analysing, and composing across a wide variety of historical periods, cultural traditions and musical genres. We believe that music affects our lives in so many different ways; and music education embeds a range of transferable skills which can be used in all areas of life.

Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)

At KS3, students study a range of music genres, focusing on the elements of music as the foundation for listening, creating, and performing. The curriculum also includes learning to play various musical instruments, an introduction to Samba, Reggae and Blues as well as learning how to use technology to compose.

Topics covered include:

• Rhythmic Fundamentals
• Melody writing
• Learn to play the violin
• Developing your voice
• Accompaniment Styles
• Use of iPad to compose
• Learn to play the ukulele
• Composition and Performance of Song

Students have the opportunity to integrate their practical skills in their project work alongside their developing knowledge of music technology.

Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11 GCSE)

Students study the Eduqas (9-1) Music syllabus at GCSE.  Students are examined in 3 elements as follows:

• Performing - teacher assessed worth 30% of marks. ABRSM Grade 3 suggested
• Composing - teacher assessed worth 30% of the marks
• Appraising - external examination worth 40% of the marks

Performances are recorded during Year 11 and must include a minimum of two pieces lasting a total of 4 minutes. One piece must show the performer in an ensemble setting and this must last for at least one minute; one piece should be linked to an area of study.

Students must prepare two compositions, one of which is their own choice and one devised in response to a brief set by the exam board.

For the appraising element, topics studied include.

• Musical forms and Devices including a set work (Badinerie - J.S. Bach)
• Music for Ensemble
• Film Music
• Popular Music including a set work (Africa - Toto)

GCSE Music Specification

Key Stage 5 (Years 12-13 A Level)

Students are required to have gained at least a grade 6 in GCSE Music to take this course at A Level

Students follow the Eduqas A Level Course which allows for some flexibility for students to favour either composing or performance.

The performance element which is worth either 35% or 25% is externally examined by a visiting examiner

The Composition element which is worth either 35% or 25% is externally assessed by the Board

The Appraising element is assessed by written examination and is worth 40% of the qualification

Areas of study are as follows: 

• Western Classical Tradition: The Development of the Symphony 1750-1910
• The Development of Jazz
• Into the 20th Century: Impressionism and Neoclassicism
• Composition Techniques: Understanding Functional Harmony
• Performance Practice

A Level Music Specification

Co-curricular activities

The Music Department offers a wide range of co-curricular activities led by staff. Senior students are also encouraged to form and lead their own ensembles. Ensembles currently running include

The School’s Music Development Plan is linked here