Music

“There is music in the air, music all around us, the world is full of it, and you simply take as much as you require.”

Edward Elgar

 

Vision

Our music department is a creative space where students are encouraged to explore their musical identity.  Students are supported to develop their practical skills, build a deeper understanding of musical concepts, and increase their confidence in their musical abilities so that they may engage with a life-long love of music.

 

What you can expect studying Music at Tarporley High School and Sixth Form College

The Music GCSE develops student’s musical creativity, skills and knowledge through a wide range of musical activities in performance, composition and analysis of music.  The course facilitates freedom of expression as well as an exploration of a variety of musical styles through practical engagement and developing listening and appraising skills.

Through musical study, students will increase their musical aptitude, develop ICT skills when creating composition projects and enhance key skills such as teamwork, confidence, adaptability and problem-solving skills. 

Students will appreciate the cultural diversity found in the art of music making by learning to listen to music attentively, accurately describing musical elements, exploring musical contexts and using musical language linked to four areas of study:

1)    Area of Study 1 - We stern Classical Tradition from 1650-1910

2)    Area of Study 2 - Popular Music

3)    Area of Study 3 - Traditional Music

Area of Study 4 - Western Classical Tradition since 1910

 

Key Stage 4 – GCSE Curriculum

The AQA GCSE Music course caters for a wide range of musical abilities and interests.  It facilitates freedom of expression as well as an exploration of a variety of styles.  Component 1 focusses on listening and appraising music including an in-depth study of two set pieces.  Components 2 and 3 focus on performance and composition.  Students will frequently engage in practical music making and be free to choose the style of music that they perform or compose in.

 

How we assess at KS4

Component 1: Listening. Students take a listening exam in the final year of GCSE, which equates to 40% of their overall grade. 

Component 2: Performing. Students perform as an instrumentalist or vocalist or through the use of technology.  Their final performance will include both a solo and ensemble piece totalling 4 minutes which equates to 30% of their GCSE grade.

Component 3: Composition. Over the duration of the course, students will prepare two composition projects using their choice of music software and musical style. 

Components 2 and 3 are assessed by the teacher and then a sample is sent away for moderation by the exam board.

 

Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Students have access to a wide range of extra curricular music opportunities to improve their musical skills.  These include performing in our ensembles:

  • Jazz Band - An ensemble for wind, brass, percussion and guitar instruments
  • Choir - A mixed voice singing group for students of all abilities and ages
  • Junior Choir - A vocal group for younger voices
  • Funk group - A guitar led instrumental ensemble
  • Chamber Ensemble - An instrumental ensemble for wind, string and brass instruments
  • Woodwind Ensemble - An instrumental group for woodwind players
  • String Ensemble - An instrumental group for string players

Students can also take part in the following enrichment activities:

  • Music Theory Lessons
  • Music Production Club
  • Arts Award - Bronze, Silver and Gold

 

Academic...