Music

We believe that music is and should be seen as an integral part of our everyday lives and we are committed to providing engaging musical opportunities for all students. Our goal is to make students aware of the musical context within everything we do, whether this is through practical music making or through musical analysis. This year, we have been working hard at developing stronger links with the creative arts and in particular, drama both in curriculum time and with both the cathedral concert and the musical production.

We have a developing partnership with 'The Music Pool' based at 'The Courtyard Theatre'. Already this year, we have had 'Drum Love' drumming workshops and a 10 week course of Hip Hop sessions for Year 8 students which they thoroughly enjoyed. We also performed at the Cathedral again this year for our annual carol concert.

Year 7

Pupils are taught within a carousel system alongside music, drama and art within the One Life One World curriculum they will study music from all over the world with the emphasis upon performing. Pupils will get the chance to choose from electric guitars, glockenspiel, Keyboard, drum kit and a whole host of other instruments to play within a classroom orchestra.

Year 8

Pupils are taught within a creative arts carousel, they will study three topics throughout the year that will culminate in a final presentation/production of their work. They will study music, art and drama within a rotation system. Pupils will compose and perform music developing skills they have worked upon in year 7.

Year 9

BTEC First Extended Certificate in MUSIC

Who is the course for?

This course is designed for students who are interested in a career in the music industry. It focuses on aiding students to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes essential for successful performance in working life. Alongside, teaching students about different employment opportunities.

What will I study on the course?

The BTEC First Extended Certificate is a vocational qualification that focuses on aspects of employment within the music industry.

2 Core Units:

• Working in the Music Industry - students will develop their knowledge of employment opportunities and jobs in the music industry
• Professional Development in the Music Industry - students will explore the career opportunities focusing on their own professional development

Specialist Units could include:

• Working as a musical ensemble - the unit will allow students to gain a knowledge of and develop the skills required by members of a musical ensemble
• Developing as a Musical Performer - the unit will enable learners to become aware of an develop elements of image, style, health and wellbeing as they are applied in the working life of musical performers
• The Development of Music - the unit will allow students to develop their knowledge of the role of music in society
• Developing Music Theory - the unit will enable students to develop their knowledge of music theory and apply it to practical solutions

The Extended Certificate is a 30 credit and 180 guided-learning-hour qualification. Successful completion of the course will give you a nationally recognized qualification worth 2 GCSE's.

What other skills will I acquire?

You will have the opportunity to develop your personal, learning and thinking skills (PLTS), functional skills in ICT and English.
You will learn how to work as part of a team and to lead and take the initiative in group work.
You will explore the opportunities open to you in the music industry which will enable you to make informed choices about your future career plans.

What will I need for the course?

• You need to enjoy the subject. As this is a very practical course, you must be able to play an instrument and/or sing
• Be prepared to perform in different environments in and out of school, including Assemblies and Concerts
• It will be a requirement of the course that you attend extra-curricular activities
• Having the ability to read music is desirable but having the interest to develop these skills is more essential
• Be interested in developing all of your musical skills, focusing on the music industry

What is special about studying Music at The Hereford Academy?

• Dedicated Staff that encourage your learning skills
• Purpose built Music Classroom - Based around PCs with Cubase and Sibelius Yamaha MIDI Keyboards, Rock/Popular Instruments, 16 Track Powered Mixing Desk and Amplifiers
• Music Practice Rooms - for individual/group work
• Range of vocal and instrumental performing groups including rock and popular music
• Specialist music lessons are available to all BTEC students

How will I be assessed?

• Assessment is by coursework based on assignments set in each unit
• Assignments will involve: Performance projects, group and individual project work as well as written work and research
• Assessments are graded at Distinction, Merit or Pass level
• On successful completion of the course, you will be awarded an overall Distinction, Merit or Pass grade

What can I do on completion of this course?

On completion of the Extended Certificate in Music, students can continue on to the First Diploma in Music in Year 10 or the First Diploma in Performing Arts