Music
Music Department Intent
There are three main disciplines:
- To be a good performer requires technical ability that takes years of practice to master, to play with expression and accuracy of pitch and rhythm.
- To be a good composer requires creativity and consideration to structure.
- To fully appreciate music a listener needs to fully analyse what they are hearing to fully understand it, then come to an opinion describing what they like / dislike, and why.
Why is musical education essential?
Music is engrained in human cultures all around the world throughout history. Scientific studies have shown that students who are musical tend to be high achievers, better behaved, more confident and happier. Music improves our wellbeing - it is fun!
What are the aims of our music curriculum?
At CFS we intend to provide students with an understanding of a wide variety of music and encourage a passion for the subject.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7, 8 and 9):
Topics covered in year 7:
- Elements of music (learning to read music)
- Scary music (composition)
- Dance music (keeping in time)
- World music (group performance)
- Pop music (using technology)
- Descriptive music (performing expressively)
Topics covered in year 8:
- Jazz and blues (improvisation)
- History and instruments (performing expressively)
- Hooks and riffs (keeping in time)
Topics covered in Year 9:
- World music (group performance)
- Experimental music (using technology)
- Music and drama (composition)
Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11):
What will I study at GCSE Music? (OCR syllabus):
- Pop music from 1950 to the present day
- Film and computer game music
- World music
- Baroque Classical & Romantic concerto
You are assessed at the end of Year 11 with an exam (40%) and coursework (60%, two performances and two compositions).
Key Stage 5 (A-Level):
Key Stage 5 – next steps with Music:
Students that show an interest in music can further their studies by studying Music A-Level at KS5.
Further information:
Extra Curricular:
Our choir and orchestra perform in concerts such as the Carol Concert at Ss. Peter and Paul’s Church, the Senior Citizen’s party, and our main Christmas and summer concerts. They have also performed at the Barbican, Kenneth More Theatre and the local fire station! Practice rooms can be used at break and lunch or before / after school.
If students have any questions please come to Room 14 or 17. Please speak to Mr. Butters (Head of Department) or Mrs. Bell.
Please see below links for further information on the learning journey within Music:
Music Learning Journey Key Stage 3
Music Learning Journey Key Stage 4
Please see below to download Key Stage 3 music sheets:
Year 7:
Year 8:
Year 9:
