Music

Music

Head of Department – Mrs Evonne M Pellow

Music is a powerful, unique form of communication that can change the way pupils feel, think and act. It brings together intellect and feeling and enables personal expression, reflection and emotional development. As an integral part of culture, past and present, it helps pupils understand themselves and relate to others, forging important links between the home, school and the wider world. The teaching of music develops pupils’ ability to listen and appreciate a wide variety of music and to make judgements about musical quality. It encourages active involvement in different forms of music making, both individual and communal, developing a sense of group identity and togetherness. As an inclusive school the arts are a valuable means of developing confidence and communication skills, and facilitating expression, ideas and feelings. In addition, through purposeful, imaginative and ambitious activities, pupils learn to take managed risks, trying out new ideas and new ways of working without fear of failure.

We aim to develop over time, following the National Curriculum and Model Music Curriculum, a number of areas for all learners that are sequenced in such a way to build and strengthen skills over time. Foundation Learners will receive flexible access to the Music curriculum. The same topics are covered but the required level of performance will be adapted to suit the needs of the individual learner.

By the time a pupil leaves Holy Family, regardless of ability, they will have had the opportunity to:

• take peripatetic lessons in an instrument of their choice
• perform as part of a group including percussion, ukulele, steel pans, keyboard or choir
• perform music in solo, duet and larger groups
• learn how to use music technology software to record, edit, and develop their work
• study how to compose music and create several pieces of their own work
• study the work of famous composers from throughout music history and look at the development of music and musical instruments since the medieval period
• study music theory throughout Key Stage 3, and in greater depth at KS4 should they choose music at GCSE level
• develop an appreciation of music by learning how to critically listen to music, analyse and understand how music works
• experience music in both live and recorded form, with enrichment from visiting live performances where appropriate

SEND Learners receive adapted access to the mainstream Music curriculum.  The same topics are covered but the required level of performance will be adapted to suit the needs of the individual learner.  Prior learning is ascertained for ALL learners, and the curriculum is adapted accordingly.

Music Curriculum Map