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Music

Curriculum Intent Overview

Our music curriculum is designed to unlock the creative potential of all our pupils, fostering a lifelong appreciation and understanding of this vibrant art form. Through engaging, progressive learning experiences, we aim to equip our secondary students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to express themselves musically. 

Content and Skills 

Across Key Stages 3 and 4, pupils will engage with a diverse range of musical genres, styles, and traditions. They will develop a deep understanding of the elements of music, including melody, harmony, rhythm, and texture, and learn to apply this knowledge in their own performances and compositions. 

Practical music-making is at the heart of our curriculum, with regular opportunities for pupils to learn and play instruments, both individually and as part of ensembles. Composition tasks will challenge pupils to create their own original works, using both traditional notation and music technology. 

Appraising music is also a key focus, as pupils explore how musical features are used to create mood, atmosphere, and meaning. They will learn to critically analyse a wide variety of musical examples, drawing connections and making informed judgements. 

Progression 

The music curriculum is designed with a spiral approach, revisiting core concepts and skills throughout Key Stages 3 and 4. This ensures that pupils have regular opportunities to consolidate their learning, while also introducing new, more complex ideas and techniques. 

In Key Stage 3, the focus is on building a solid foundation of musical knowledge and practical abilities. Pupils will learn to play instruments, compose simple pieces, and develop their listening skills. As they progress to Key Stage 4, the curriculum becomes more challenging, with a greater emphasis on musical analysis, advanced performance techniques, and more sophisticated compositional work. 

Wider Impact 

The music curriculum at Mowbray Education Trust is not only about developing musical expertise; it also plays a crucial role in our pupils' overall personal development. Through music, pupils will cultivate important soft skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience. They will have opportunities to perform for and collaborate with the wider school community, fostering a sense of pride and belonging. 

Moreover, the music curriculum aligns with our school improvement priorities, contributing to a broad and balanced educational experience that prepares our pupils for their next steps, whether that be further study, training, or employment. By nurturing their musical talents, we aim to inspire our pupils to become lifelong advocates and practitioners of this vibrant art form. 

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