Intent
Our vision is to encourage all students to engage in performance, composition, production and appreciation of different styles of music through unlocking its accessibility and relevance. Through the study of music, our students develop skills they will use in other areas of learning. Students will build confidence, self-discipline, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking and communication skills through rehearsal, production, performance and the appreciation of different music.
Curriculum
At KS3 we focus on students learning key knowledge and skills focusing on the disciplines of music performance, music composition, music production and music appraisal.
Students explore the component parts of music such as chords, melody, harmony, rhythm, style, expression, timbre, texture, structure and contextualisation through performance, creation, active listening, production and remixing.
Students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own learning by setting targets and reflecting on their progress. They develop strategies for independent rehearsal, as well as developing key skills of communication, co-operation, teamwork and self-regulation.
We believe these skills are vital for future success.
At KS4 we follow the programme of study for BTEC Tech Award in Music Practice. Students study the compositional and sonic features of a wide range of music including Serialism, Film music, Minimalism, Synth-Pop, Punk Pop, British Invasion, Reggae and Brit Pop. Students can also choose a genre to suit their musical tastes and interests. Students create their own compositions including song writing, create arrangements using a DAW, take part in creative performances and create music for media and film. Students are expected to reflect on their own skill development, creating plans, setting targets and reflecting on their progress and success.
Cultural Experiences
Instrumental lessons are offered free of charge to any student who wishes to take them as we believe that instrumental tuition is an entitlement. We currently have teachers for violin, cello, cornet, trumpet, horn, tuba, piano, guitar, drums and vocal who come to us from Rochdale Music Service. There are extra-curricular activities for students to get involved in and we actively encourage students to set up their own groups and bands. We offer clubs for choir, piano, music technology, rock band, musical theatre and pop vocals. We also encourage students to perform as soloists and in smaller ensembles in order to give them further experience as a performer. We have an annual school production; previous shows have included Beauty and the Beast, Frozen and High School Musical. Students are also encouraged to take their graded music exams as appropriate. Practice rooms are made available during breaks and lunch times on a rota during the week.
Alumni from the department have historically gone onto work at Sony/EMI, perform professionally in internationally acclaimed folk groups and pop bands, become members of the Army Bands and have furthered their studies at the Royal Northern College of Music, Urdang Academy and the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.