Music at John Spence
The Key Stage 3 Music course is divided up into the following areas of study:
Year 7:- Pupils sing and play in small groups and whole classes. Elements are explored using tuned and un-tuned percussion instruments and a range of songs are performed. Beat, pulse, rhythm, pitch, dynamics and tone are studied and listening/appraising skills refined.
Specific styles of music include:
• Christmas celebrations
• Rock ‘n’ Roll
• African Kpanlogo
• Sea Shanties
• Soundscapes.
Pupils seek to develop the ability to critically appraise their own work and performances of music making are recorded. The four orchestral sections are identified and pupils extend their musical vocabulary and knowledge of musical notation.
Year 8:- Pupils will develop rhythmic and melodic patterns and study ways to notate music. They begin keyboard studies, playing melodies with chordal and/or rhythmic backing. They listen to, and comment on, instrumental and vocal pieces from varying parts of the world.
The Year 8 course is divided into five units:
• Keyboard/notation
• Christmas music
• Waltz music
• Musical Clichés
• Jazz improvisation.
Year 9:- Pupils work individually, in small groups and as full classes. Using their understanding of the elements of music they study melodies and chord sequences using keyboards, rhythmic chordal accompaniments on guitar and develop their knowledge of composing techniques within a popular style.
The year 9 course is divided into units, which include:
• Hooks and riffs
• Folk music
• Guitar playing/songwriting
• Ensemble skills
• Music and the media.
In 2007 – 2008 KS3 pupils have taken part in:-
• lunchtime keyboard lessons
• woodwind / brass tuition
• whole Year 7 group performing the UN “Song for Peace”
• singing rehearsals and Carol-singing concert for care home residents
• song and Dance routines on stage in a pantomime
• X-factor auditions and final show performances
• ABRSM instrumental examinations
At Key Stage 4, pupils follow the GCSE Music AQA syllabus
The course is in four sections (each worth 25% of their final mark)
• Composing
• Performing
• Integrated Assignment
• Listening and Appraising
By the end of the pupils are able to use their musical skills to appreciate the music of others as well as enjoying music of their own. The GCSE course will provide an excellent base for further study and leisure time activity.
In 2007—2008 KS4 pupils have:
• Taken part in national Music Week
• Attended concerts featuring Jazz bands, Chinese drummers and the Michael Nyman band.
• Received solo and ensemble guitar and woodwind lessons
• Entered ABRSM instrumental examinations
• Arranged work experience at Whitley Bay Playhouse, The Sage Gateshead, and the Buddle Arts Centre
• Enrolled in music courses at Newcastle College
• Begun A level music courses in sixth form.
The music department consists of:
• Mr D. Purvis
• Miss S. Heath
• Mr D. Grazzer
• Mr A. Jobson - guitar
• Mr A. McCrum - woodwind
• Mr J. Flood - brass
