Music

In Year 7, students will study the following topics:

• Anthems and Rhythms 
• Fanfares and Chromaticism 
• Carnival of the Animals and Dance 

All pupils will have three lessons in each two-week cycle of the school's timetable. Work covered includes the basics of reading, playing, composing and performing music in a variety of styles. Pupils are taught to become informed listeners and confident classroom performers. Pupils who play orchestral instruments are encouraged to use them in lessons. 

In Year 8, students will study the following topics:

• Classical and Blues 
• Pop and Dance 
• Minimalism and Contemporary Trends 

Pupils build on their previous knowledge and experience, and perform and compose more complex pieces. Topics will include Jazz, Film music and contemporary music styles.

Music is offered as an option in Year 9. In Year 9, students will study the following topics:

• Rock ‘n’ Roll and Film Music 
• Jazz and Sibelius 
• Theme and Variations and South America 

The course follows on logically from the work covered in Year 8 and includes one Music Tech lesson. Topics include a study of World Music and Music for Stage and Screen. Pupils also compose and perform their own pop songs and produce their own CD that they record in the recording studio. Those taking Music in Year 9 are encouraged to take part in one or more musical activities in the School. The course is designed to be a good preparation for the work that is needed for music at GCSE. 

In Year 10, Music is offered as an option GCSE (OCR). Students will study the following core topics:

• Composition Focus 
• The Concerto through Time 
• Film Music 

The GCSE consists of the three following overarching elements:

• Listening: Candidates will have to show a wide knowledge of musical styles and a knowledge of musical theory. 
• Performing: Students will be asked to perform a solo piece of music, and take part in an ensemble, showing that they can hold a line in a duet or larger group. 
• Composing: Candidates will build up a portfolio of original compositions and arrangements, and be asked to submit two (one for their own instrument). 

In Year 11, students will study the following topics:

• Conventions of Pop 
• Rhythms of the World 
• Revision 

Clubs and Societies

• Orchestras x3
• Choirs x3
• Swing band
• Big band
• Rock academy
• A large number of chamber music groups

Trips 

Regular trips to concerts and operas are arranged and professional musicians are invited into the department to lead a range of workshops and master classes.  Recent activities have included playing alongside the London Mozart Players and a trip to New York for a tour of the Juilliard School and performances at the MET, Carnegie Hall, Village Vanguard Jazz Club and the Broadway Theatre for a performance of Miss Saigon. 

Other Opportunities 

Many of our young musicians perform with county and national level ensembles.

There are also many opportunities for students to perform in concerts at school, in the wider community and on tour.

If you have a specific enquiry for the Music Department, email tjh@kes.hants.sch.uk