Curriculum Intent for Music

Music is an inclusive subject which reaches out to all students. The academic nature of reading notation, understanding theory and musical analysis challenges all students across the key stages. Performance elements allow scope for expression, confidence building and social development. Composition gives students the opportunity to use their creativity in writing music and lyrics. Instrumental development equips students with a life-skill of being able to play a musical instrument. With this wide ranging latitude, Music can provide an enriching and inspiring learning experience for all

Department Information

Making music involves more than the voice or fingers playing an instrument; a child learning about music has to tap into multiple skill sets, often simultaneously. For instance, people use their ears and eyes, as well as large and small muscles. Music is a language, music is an academic subject, Music is an art form. It’s a subject which covers a multitude of different aspects and offers countless opportunities. 

Music is an inclusive subject which reaches out to all students. The academic nature of reading notation, understanding theory and musical analysis challenges all students across the key stages. Performance elements allow scope for expression, confidence building and social development. Composition gives students the opportunity to use their creativity in writing music and lyrics. Instrumental development equips students with a life-skill of being able to play a musical instrument. With this wide ranging latitude, Music can provide an enriching and inspiring learning experience for all 

Key Stage 5

RSL Subsidiary Diploma for Music Practitioners (1.5 A-Levels)

Required:

Competent Instrumental/Vocal ability

Desired:

• L2 Music Qualification (such as BTEC L2, GCSE Music, Other)
• ABRSM Grade 5 Music Theory
• Instrumental Grade 5

Unit 363 (Session Musician) - 10% of final grade

Unit 366 (Music Production) - 15% of final grade

Unit 333 (Live Sound Engineering) - 15% of final grade

Unit 349 (Musical Careers) - 15% of final grade

Unit 366 (Musical Performance – Externally Assessed) - 30% of final grade

Unit 316 (Understanding Musical Styles) - 15% of final grade

Each unit involves a guest music industry professional to deliver a workshop or lecture. There are also numerous live performance and studio recording opportunities.  A vocational ‘live sound’ visit to a live music venue, where students work alongside a professional sound engineer.  

Year 12

• Playing solo and in ensembles, analytically investigating sophisticated musical styles and nuances.
• Arranging and sequencing digital musical formats.
• Producing and mastering recorded music.
• Operating a mixing desk/PA in a live music situation.   

Year 13

Playing competently under musical direction within various musical styles.

Performing music (solo or in ensemble) set to a brief. This will be externally marked.

Being able to analyse music theory aspects to an extensive and sophisticated level.  

Learning Journeys

Music