Music
Head of Department: Mr D Bradley
The Music Department is situated in a suite of rooms which includes a large classroom and practice rooms.
During year 7, students will study rhythm which involves ear training and composition. They will also look at notation, learning to read and compose tunes using instruments and computers. In the third term, we study Gamelan Music and compose tunes in Gamelan style.
In year 8, we examine Rock 'n' Roll looking at the musical and cultural aspects of teenage Britain in the 1950’s. Composition takes the form of twelve bar blues. In the second term, we look at tonality and composition using computers, and in the third term we examine African instrumental and vocal music. In year
9, students examine time signatures using 5 and 7 beats in a bar, endeavouring to compose tunes with smooth melodic lines. We then look at the music of Delius, exploring nature and music together with texture and the issues faced by Delius and Eric Fenby. In the second term, we look at Reggae, the music of Jamaica, moving on to Music Technology using "Cubase SE3."
In year 10, music is an optional subject and the two year course follows the Edexcel syllabus for GCSE Music.
Extra curricular activities provide a wealth of opportunity for music-making. There is a flourishing wind band with strong links with both the Royal Marines Band Service and also the Army Corps of Music. Concerts are a regular feature of the department’s calendar, Christmas being perhaps the busiest time. A large choir exists which again is called on to perform in concerts both in and out of school, particularly around Christmas. We also have a String Orchestra, Jazz Band and Rock Band which provide opportunities for students to pursue a range of interests throughout the year.
