Music
OVERVIEW
Pupils explore a range of genres from Baroque to the present day, focusing on listening, composing, and performing.
All pupils sing as part of the curriculum, taking part in Kodály-inspired lessons to learn sight-singing, notation, and music theory. Year 1 pupils learn recorder, Year 2 pupils the violin, and Year 4 pupils also learn a woodwind instrument as part of class music.
OUR SYLLABUS
The curriculum is centred around developing the singing voice through Kodály pedagogy, with pupils singing a variety of unison and two-part songs to develop their inner hearing.
Pupils also learn about music elements through rhythmic and melodic activities, including understanding polyphonic textures, ostinato, chords, and keyboard skills. Percussion is used in composition work, and pupils are encouraged to play instruments in class concerts every half term.
WHY STUDY MUSIC?
All pupils learn a common musical language, using a framework of rhythmic and melodic activities. They enjoy listening to music from the last four centuries and engaging in games, composing together, and performing in an inclusive environment.
• Local performing arts venues, such as the Brewhouse Theatre and King’s College
• Singing at historical venues like Wells Cathedral and Exeter Cathedral
Specialist music teachers demonstrate their instruments, encouraging interest in instrumental lessons and contributing to the school’s orchestra and ensembles. Regular performances include participation in the Taunton Music Festival, informal concerts, termly ensemble concerts, assembly performances, graded music exams, and trying new instruments.
Pupils develop confidence through performing opportunities and class music, with the chance to explore instrumental lessons and develop discipline. They learn to collaborate, to express their creativity and to show perseverance.
