Music
Introduction
Head of Department: Mrs R Kennedy
Music Teacher: Mrs M Keag
Peripatetic Teachers:
Mr R Gay (Drums)
Ms K Harper (Violin, Singing)
Mr J Morrow (Guitar, Bass guitar)
Mr B McClean (Piano, Saxophone, Flute, Tin whistle, Bodhran)
Music is an art form that combines sound, silence, rhythm, pitch, tone, melody, and harmony to express emotions and ideas. It has the power to energise and calm us, evoke memories, and stir feelings of nostalgia.
Research shows that studying music supports the development of critical thinking, spatial awareness, and cognitive skills. It also strengthens communication, creativity, and self-expression. Playing music as part of a group helps pupils build teamwork, self-discipline, confidence, and the ability to listen and collaborate effectively.
Our Music Block is a vibrant, welcoming space where every pupil can explore their creativity and express themselves in a fun and supportive environment.
"Where words fail, music speaks."
— Hans Christian Andersen
Subject Information
Music is a combination of sounds, silence, rhythm, pitch, tone, melody and harmony that communicate emotions and ideas. It has great power to excite and to relax us, to bring back memories and to make us feel nostalgic.
Research shows that studying music can help students develop critical thinking, spatial reasoning and cognitive skills. It also helps develop communication skills and encourages creativity and expressiveness. Students who play music as part of a group develop team-working skills, self-discipline, self-esteem and the ability to listen to others.
"Without music, life would be a mistake."
— Friedrich Nietzsche
Key Stage 3
At Key Stage 3, all pupils are given the opportunity to build a strong foundation in music through four key areas: performing, composing, listening, and appraising. They learn to express themselves confidently through performance, explore creativity by composing original pieces, and develop critical listening skills to understand a wide range of musical styles and traditions. Appraising encourages pupils to evaluate and reflect on music thoughtfully, deepening their appreciation of its cultural and historical context. These experiences not only nurture musical ability but also enhance creativity, collaboration, and analytical thinking—skills that benefit pupils across all areas of learning
All pupils in Key Stage 3 need to have their own Tin Whistle.
This can be purchased online or in any music shop, please make sure it is a standard D Tin Whistle.
All pupils have 3 periods across the two-week timetable.
In Year 8, pupils explore these skills through topics such as:
The Orchestra Musical Elements Music Theory Vocal work
Harp Tin Whistle Keyboard Djembe Drums
Boom Whackers Body Percussion
In Year 9, pupils develop their skills through topics such as:
Musicals Musical Elements Music Theory Vocal work
Ukulele Tin Whistle Keyboard Djembe Drums
In Year 10, pupils extend their learning of these skills through topics such as:
Film Music Musical Elements Music Theory Vocal work
Guitar Tin Whistle Ukulele Keyboard Djembe Drums
Key Stage 4
At Key Stage 4 we offer a GCSE in CCEA Music.
This course allows pupils to:
- Develop their knowledge, understanding and appreciation of a range of different kinds of music
- Take part in music-making and communicate through music
- Develop their creativity
- Make judgments about musical quality
- Develop a lifelong interest in music
- Learn about music-related careers
Course Description
Areas of Study
All pupils will study four areas of study:
Western Classical Music from 1600-1910
Film Music
Musical Traditions in Ireland
Popular Music from 1980-Present day
Pupils engage with a wide variety of musical styles and traditions, including Classical, Pop, Film, and Traditional Irish music. This broad exposure helps them appreciate the richness and diversity of musical heritage while supporting their personal, social, intellectual, and cultural growth.
Through the performance aspect of the course, learners build essential skills for effective musical communication. This not only boosts their confidence but also strengthens their abilities in presentation, communication, and critical evaluation. Additionally, the chance to compose their own music encourages creativity and self-expression, allowing students to explore their individuality as musicians.
Pieces include Handel- ‘For unto us a child is born’, Mozart- ‘Horn Concerto’. John Williams- ‘Superman’ Main Theme, Beoga- ‘Prelude Polkas’, Eurythmics- ‘Sweet Dreams’.
Assessment Methods
Pupils will be assessed on their ability to:
Compose and appraise (30%): Pupils will create two contrasting compositions, one of which must be related to a stimulus chosen from either a melodic, rhythmic or chordal stimulus. The stimuli are released at the start of year 12.
Perform and appraise (35%): Pupils will present one solo performance and one ensemble performance, lasting up to a total of 6 minutes combined in front of an external visiting examiner. Pupils will also discuss their performance with the visiting CCEA examiner by answering 5 set questions (Viva Voce). This component is assessed approximately in the April of year 12.
Listen and appraise (35%): Pupils will complete one listening exam which is divided into three sections. The exam lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
Section A contains questions based on the set works from all four areas of study.
Section B is based on unfamiliar music from the four areas of study.
Section C is a longer mark question where you would be expected to give a detailed description of the analysis of one of the set works.
This exam will take place at the end of year 12.
Extra-curricular:
Individual instrumental lessons, College Choir, College Traditional Group, Junior Traditional Group, Wind Ensemble, Drumming Club, Ukulele Club, Staff Choir.
Pupils who participate in these ensembles play an integral role in the cultural and spiritual life of the College. They contribute to a wide range of occasions both within the College and in the wider community. Within the College, they provide music for all liturgical services, enriching these celebrations with their talent and dedication. Beyond the College grounds, pupils extend their outreach by visiting local nursing homes and performing for other organisations in the community, bringing joy and comfort through music to those they serve.
The College Choir and Traditional Music Group are particularly active, performing at numerous events that foster connections with both the local and broader community. Their involvement not only showcases musical excellence but also reflects the College’s commitment to service, tradition, and community engagement. Through these experiences, pupils develop confidence, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for the role of music in cultural and spiritual life.
It’s easy to play any musical instrument: all you have to do is touch the right key at the right time and the instrument will play itself.
- J.S. Bach