Class Music
“Encouraging self-confidence and expression.”
Every boy in the school receives specialist class music lessons covering five main skills: Listening, Appraising, Theory, Performing and Composing. A Scholarship programme offers training to boys hoping to gain Music Scholarships to upper schools. Musician of the Week awards are presented to those who excel in class music.
Listening and Appraising
From the Foundation Stage onwards boys are introduced to a wide variety of musical styles and genres. They listen to music from each of the historical periods in music: Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Modern. They also enjoy exploring Jazz, World and Popular music. In Key Stages 1 and 2, boys are encouraged to explore the technical and emotional aspects of music. Key Stage 3 develops the technique of music analysis.
Theory and Composing
In the Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 boys learn to perform and compose music using sounds relating to images and words. In Key Stages 2 and 3 boys are taught how to read and write music notation, leading to exciting composition projects using Sibelius software. The Music Theory Club, which takes place after school, prepares boys for ABRSM theory examinations.
Performing
Performing is the most important aspect of music lessons. All boys learn to sing and play the keyboard and recorder. There are also many opportunities for ‘free performance’ in class music, encouraging expression and self-confidence, an integral aspect of the lessons from the Foundation Stage onwards. We have many extra-curricular music activities including three choirs, a wind band, string group and Ukulele orchestra!
Scholarship Programme
Boys who are proficient enough in one or more musical instruments or singing might be eligible to apply for a Music Scholarship at the upper school of their choice. If you think your son is a potential music scholar, please do not hesitate to make an appointment with the Director of Music.
Requirements
The following must be fulfilled by a boy wishing to study for a music scholarship from at least Year 5 onwards:
- Proficiency on the first instrument and potential to reach ABRSM Grade 5 or 6 by the end of Year 7.
- Regular lessons in two instruments and/or voice.
- Taking part in the School Choir or Chamber Choir.
- Taking part in wind band or string group, if the instrument is applicable.
- Participation in the Music Theory club.
