Music
Intent - What do we want to achieve?
In the KT Federation we understand how music helps us to communicate and express ourselves, with many emotions and skills being unlocked through listening and performing, as well as singing, dancing and composing. Every culture is intertwined with music and this helps bring people together. We aim to encourage children to perform, listen to, review and evaluate music across a range of historical periods, genres, styles and traditions, including the works of the great composers and musicians and to make links across other curriculum subjects, such as history, RE and art.
We understand how progress in music requires children to develop musically across 3 ‘pillars’ that connect skills learnt as a musician and our aim is that our children are able to become competent musicians through these.
- The first pillar is the ‘technical’ development which will involve playing instruments or singing, but may also include musical technology i.e. software, apps.
- The second pillar is the ‘constructive’ pillar. This is the knowledge of how musical elements, such as harmony, melody and rhythm come together.
- The third pillar, the ‘expressive’ pillar, is focused on musical quality and creativity.
Implementation - how will we achieve this?
We will use the music scheme Charanga to ensure high quality content and subject coverage. Class teachers will use Charanga to plan, deliver and assess the music curriculum in line with National Curriculum requirements. Each unit of work has an on-going musical learning focus and lessons usually follow a specific learning sequence:
- Listen and Appraise
- Musical Activities (including pulse and rhythm)
- Singing and Voice
- Playing instruments
- Improvisation / Composition
- Perform and Share
We will give opportunities for children to revisit and practice music skills and content learned so that knowledge becomes embedded. Children will be given space to develop their own ideas independently, but in an environment that is structured and supportive when needed. Feedback will be clear, encouraging and guide the children on how to improve their musical competence.
Children will become aware of music from a broad spectrum of cultures to build an appreciation of others and the diversity of the world.
Impact - what will be the impact on learning?
Outcomes after children have followed our music curriculum demonstrate progression and show how knowledge and skills are embedded. Our children enjoy their music lessons and are confident when singing and performing.Their achievements will be shared with parents and carers during class and whole school performances, both in person and uploaded to watch remotely.
We measure the impact of our curriculum through the assessments that are carried out at then end of each Charanga unit. We also use photo and video evidence of the children's practical learning.
The subject leader monitors the teaching of music, attending relevant CPD opportunities and will support other staff whenever needed.
Other opportunities in music
We are visited weekly by a peripatetic music teacher and in Y3-Y6, children are offered a range of music lessons, such as violin and piano. We also join with other Bedford Borough schools for projects such as ‘Sing On’ and ‘Creative Arts’, which enables our KS2 children to perform en masse to an audience.
Children also perform at key times during the year, such as Christmas performances, end of term celebrations.
In addition, Class teachers will seek out additional music opportunities during topics to engage children and enrich the learning experience.