Music
Music teaching at Wellfield aims to engage and inspire pupils in developing a love of music and their talent as musicians. Music is a universal language that embodies one of the highest forms of creativity and will support the development of self-confidence, creativity and sense of achievement. The Music curriculum is planned to develop the pupils’ knowledge and skills, incorporating access to: a range of instruments; technology to allow access to online learning platforms; apps such as GarageBand; experience through trips to the theatre. We also have a number of peripatetic teachers who can offer pupils additional opportunities to focus on a chosen instrument, further extending their musical experiences.
“Music can change the world because it can change people.” - Bono
At Wellfield, we aim to encourage all pupils to develop a greater appreciation for Music no matter its background, origin and style. Music is by its nature inclusive and every child should have the opportunity to:
- dream – to listen and personalise music, letting it inspire their imagination.
- explore – to develop their curiosity about music that is both old and new.
- discover – to learn to interpret written musical forms, developing composition and performing skills.
Teachers at Wellfield know good Music teaching happens when:
- Practical lessons allow the opportunity to learn, practise and consolidate skills;
- Learning is interesting and relevant, linked to previous and future learning;
- Lessons are inclusive and allow opportunities for challenge;
- Pupils can appreciate and listen to a wide range of music without judgement and discrimination.
Music and the 5Cs
Coherence
In Music, learning builds on prior knowledge and practical skills, allowing progression in listening, performing, composing and improvising, deepening skills across and within each year group. Pupils will work through theory, listening, and practical sessions, gaining and developing understanding to create music (e.g. standard staff notation builds upon spot and grid notation, which builds upon graphic notation).
Communication
Throughout the teaching of Music, pupils will be able to develop a variety of oral communications which are transferable across subjects. They have the opportunity to verbally identify strengths, weaknesses and improvements for others and themselves when discussing performances and compositions. Pupils are also taught the subject specific language to support their communication and understanding.
Creativity
Through composition, improvisation and technology, pupils will have the opportunity to explore their creativity while making music. Their creativity will stem from a given focus and parameters to fit the style or theme of music they are discovering. Creativity includes not only the combination of sounds, but also the choice of instruments/sound, use of the different musical elements such as tempo and dynamics as well as harmonies.
Community
Throughout the Music curriculum, children are exposed to a wide range of music from different regions, countries, backgrounds and periods. They will have the opportunity to listen to a range of music as well as compose and perform in the different styles shared with them. Pupils will also be given the opportunity to perform publicly as part of the wider county community at events organised by the NTMEH (North Tyneside Music Education Hub).
Compassion
Through the listening and discussion of Music, pupils will have the opportunity to develop their compassion for themselves and others through: evaluation of performances; the discovery of the root of music, such as the Blues from slavery; self evaluation, learning to be focused and not overly critical of themselves.