“Music has a power of forming the character, and should therefore be introduced into the education of the young”. Aristotle
‘Music is fun and is surprisingly active’, YR6
Intent
We believe that music should be an enjoyable experience for pupils and teachers. Our intent is for children to participate in a range of musical experiences. They will develop their understanding of rhythm and pitch and learn how music is structured, as well as learning technical vocabulary for these elements, focussing on dynamics, tempo, timbre, texture and structure. As the children’s confidence builds, they will be able to understand and enjoy the performance aspect of music with a focus on learning to perform as an ensemble. Children will experience listening to music from different cultures and eras.
Implementation
Music will be taught by a specialist musician using the school instrument resources. Students engage in weekly physical musical activities which develop their fine motor skills, aural and rhythm memory skills, visual memory, skills plus cognitive and social skills. Regular singing in assemblies allows children to learn how to perform in larger ensembles. Regular performance points demonstrate that music is important to the life of the school. Extracurricular activities, such as choirs, bands and peripatetic instrument lessons also enrich and motivate the children.
Impact
The whole school community is impacted by music through regular performances and extracurricular musical activities, which parents and governors are invited to listen to. Each week children are provided with regular specialist teaching. Research suggests music supports and accelerates brain development in children, particularly in the areas of the brain responsible for processing sound, language development, speech perception and reading skills. Here at St. Josephs, we ensure that all pupils across the school experience music, a wide range of activities, cross curricular links and through singing.