Music
Our vision:
Through studying music, students develop and practice a unique set of skills, which are acknowledged to be excellent preparation for a range of disciplines, careers and vocations. At the heart of our music program is the reading and writing of the music language. Through composing, performing and appraising music, students learn to read music and to apply these literacy skills in their assessments.
At William Edwards School, our curriculum follows the ‘Tobin Music System’ pedagogy to teach music literacy. It is a multisensory method of teaching all aspects of the rudiments of music, harmonisation and composition.
To many people music is not meant to be easy to understand. I disagree. Playing an instrument needs technical dexterity and a great deal of dedication and skill, but the ability to understand music should be accessible to all.
Candida Tobin, 2007
Primarily, the Tobin System uses colour to teach pitch/harmony and shorthand to teach rhythm. Students learn the basics of pitch and rhythm at the beginning of year 7, and they practice these skills through performing, composing and appraising music. Each unit in year 8 & 9 continues to build on this knowledge, introducing more complex music theory while also practicing these skills through the golden threads.
Being able to read and write music allows students to access and appraise music from around the world, allowing for a diverse curriculum. Students practice these skills on a variety of instruments including keyboard, acoustic guitar, bass guitar, ukulele, glockenspiel, samba instruments, drum kit and music sequencing software.
Music technology is also a major focus of our curriculum. We believe that being able to navigate and manipulate musical elements in music sequencing software is another way in which students can practice their skills in music literacy. Skills in music technology is essential to success in music at KS4 and any further study of music after secondary school.
We use a variety of teaching and learnings styles in our lessons. While individual work is focused on improving knowledge and dexterity with an instrument, paired and group work gives students an opportunity of enjoy music with others, while also making judgements and providing constructive feedback. We encourage students to reflect on their learning through verbal feedback and written dialogue in their books.
The music department aims to provide enjoyable musical experiences through a diverse music curriculum and encourage students to understand, be open to and think critically about a wide variety of music styles.
We see our key objectives as:
Technical ability, where students produce sound vocally, instrumentally or using music technology. This includes:
- Reading and writing music (music literacy).
- Providing time for students to practice and develop performance skills.
- Provide opportunities to experience a variety of different instruments.
- Developing knowledge of music theory that relates to composing.
Construction of musical components, where students understand and apply the musical elements to their work.
- Students can describe the musical elements in music that they hear and play.
- Providing time for students to practice and develop composing skills.
- Providing time for students to practice and develop skills on music technology.
Developing musical expression, where students listen to and appreciate a wide range of music.
- Giving opportunities for students to listen and appraise a variety of different music.
- Ensuring students understand composition skills confidently to be imaginative.
As a department, we believe that Music is important to a student’s programme of study for a number of reasons:
- By understanding and appreciating different kinds of music, you are able to enjoy and participate in cultural activities with friends and family, creating more fulfilment in life.
- Music is a universal language that all cultures find much enjoyment from.
- Participating in music can help you to make friends and enjoy all types of music after you leave secondary school.
Documents
Key Stage 3 Programme of Study
Key Stage 4 Programme of Study GCSE Music
Key Stage 4 Programme of Study BTEC Music
Key Stage 4 Programme of Study – Eduqas Vocational Award in Performing Arts (Music Tech Route)
Exam specification
Tech Award Performing Arts (Music)
Level 1/2 Vocational award in Performing Arts
Names and email addresses of key post-holders:
J Kimmings
C Walmsley
Department Leader
Music teacher