Music

Head of Department: Mr Matthew Lond

Curriculum Intent

The Music Department not only aims to develop musical ability but also the confidence and self-esteem of the individual. Through group activities and independent work, students learn the theory and techniques to perform and compose with various musical instruments. Practical work is a key part of every lesson structure; first learning the background information and applying it to a creative and engaging task. This varied mix of activities makes the school’s Music courses appealing and exciting for all.

Music is an important part of the curriculum, both due to its intrinsic qualities and for its benefits across the wider curriculum.

There are plenty of opportunities to showcase talent in a number of concerts every year. Whether it’s in school or out of school, the music calendar is packed with performances, trips and educational visits to enhance the cultural and musical experiences of the individual. Many of our students go on to study music, and we are proud that several have continued to enter the music profession at the highest level.

During Key Stage 3 students will undertake a balanced curriculum of activities which expose students to a wide range of musical styles and experiences. They have opportunities to play a range of instruments, listen to set works and create their own music. There is a wide range of musical material, recordings, computers, instruments and recording equipment available to enable the pupils to build upon their own interests, abilities and tastes in music whilst encouraging them to discover new fields of music. During Year 7 and 8 students will experience three hours of music per fortnight and in Year 9 students will have a one-hour lesson per week.

Facilities

Students at King’s take advantage of a wide range of resources, and the department houses two fully equipped music technology classrooms, rehearsal room, recording studio and six instrumental teaching rooms.

Additional Information

Practical music thrives at King’s. There is a wealth of different activities on offer and students are encouraged to make the most of all of these opportunities. There are unparalleled opportunities for performance, whether as a soloist or as part of a small or large ensemble. Over 200 instrumental lessons take place each week and approximately a third of the school learn to play a musical instrument. Fourteen instrumental teachers deliver these lessons. Information on instrumental lessons can be obtained from the Head of Music.

Groups available at the school are:

• Concert Band
• Wind Band
• String Ensemble
• School Choir
• Big Band and Junior Big Band
• Soul Band and Junior Soul Band 
• Percussion Ensemble and Junior Percussion Ensemble
• Brass Ensemble and Junior Brass Ensemble
• Jazz and Rock Combo’s
• Saxophone Ensemble
• Clarinet Ensemble

Enrichment opportunities