Music
Intent – Vision and Aim
“Music is to the soul what words are to the mind.” ― Modest Mouse
At St Robert Southwell our intent is to develop the love of music in every child from Nursery to Year 6. Music is another language with its own rhythms and symbols which inspire creativity, self-confidence and imagination. The music curriculum aims to instil a love of music through a variety of ways giving children at St Robert Southwell the opportunity to experience a wide range of musical genres and cultures. Music is an important part of daily life at St Robert Southwell and is embraced by all. Children learn how to use their voices safely and effectively, they learn about famous musicians and take inspiration from them to compose and critique their own pieces of music. Learning a range of instruments gives the children the opportunity to choose one they may wish to continue to play individually.
Implementation
“Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without.” ― Confucius
Music provision at St Robert Southwell is provided by specialist music tutors from the Brent Music Service. All children attend weekly lessons with their teachers and access the ‘Music’sCool’ programme which develops musical skills and understanding from Nursery to Year 6 and follows the National Curriculum. Individual tuition of a range of instruments is also provided not only by the music service but other professional musicians on the school premises. Children can then go on to join ensembles in Brent which rehearse after school on a different site.
Singing forms a big part of the music curriculum and is very much celebrated in school through weekly hymn practices, assemblies and as part of the music lessons. Children in Year 4 are given the opportunity to audition for the school choir which has seen a number of successes during its existence. Opportunities are also given to Years 4 and 5 to sing at prestigious venues as part of a massed choir.
Impact
Children are assessed throughout the school year by both the Music Service Tutor and the class teacher against National Curriculum targets. These include listening to and following musical patterns with their voice as well as with instruments. End of term concerts are performed for parents to ‘show off’ the children’s talents and to show what they have learned. Children are also given opportunities during lessons to self-evaluate and give feedback to others building their critical skills.
At the end of their time at St Robert Southwell children leave with a strong love of music whether it be through singing, playing or listening to music or through all.
“To live is to be musical, starting with the blood dancing in your veins. Everything living has a rhythm. Do you feel your music?” ― Michael Jackson