Music

Head of Department: Mrs Love

Outline of Course:

Practically based course with the emphasis on composing, listening and performing (in half-termly modules)

Content:

Term 1:

• Form: a study of different forms and structures of music, mainly based on a performance of a Rondo piece
• Variations: An introduction to the use of Music technology and Cubase software.

Term 2:

• Film Music: a project creating music to fit with film scenes. Development of composition and instrumental skills.
• Film Music2 : Development of performance skills through performance of James Bond.

Term 3:

• Indian Music: a study of music and instruments from India through practical tasks.
• Songwriting: an exploration into the importance of words, melody and chord structure.

Activities:

• Class activities using and developing vocal and instrumental work including keyboard skills
• Performances both as a class and individual, vocal and instrumental
• Group and paired activities developing performance and composing through given stimuli
• Improvisational work
• Listening activities which provide stimuli for composing and development of musical understanding

Skills:

Term 1: To listen and develop an understanding of a musical form in different styles.To select and combine resources and develop musical ideas.

Term 2: To communicate musical ideas within a group composition.To use sounds and musical conventions to achieve an intended effect.

Term 3: To understand musical traditions from different parts of the world.To develop listening skills by identifying instruments and country.To perform in a group showing an awareness of audience. To develop and understand chord structures.

Homework activities:

Homework will only be set for appropriate activities eg write up of material listened to in class. Appraisal of composition work. Students are expected to develop their performance skills if they have an instrument at home.

Assessment:

The majority of assessment is done on an informal basis through their practical activities and homework assignments.

At the end of year there will be an assessment task focusing on skills developed throughout the year.

Parental contribution:

• Parental encouragement is important in the development of the students instrumental skills
• The encouragement to listen to a wide variety of musical styles will develop students' musical understanding
• All instrumentalists should be encouraged to participate within a band/group or orchestra, within school