Music

Harmonious Exploration: Nurturing Musical Creativity

Unlocking Melodic Minds: The Heartbeat of KS3 At the core of our KS3 curriculum lies a symphony of enjoyment and creativity. We have orchestrated our approach to broaden the horizons of musical and cultural understanding, offering pupils a vibrant canvas to express themselves through the art of musical creation. As the rhythm of their understanding deepens, they will uncover a greater awareness of themselves and the kaleidoscope of the world around them.

Tuning into Inspiration: Practical Pathways Our aim is to conduct an orchestra of engagement and inspiration. In this symphony of learning, practical lessons take center stage, fostering an environment where pupils explore melodies and harmonies, both independently and through harmonious collaboration with peers.

A Multigenre Musical Odyssey At KS3, we open a world of musical exploration to our pupils. The curriculum becomes a journey through a myriad of musical styles, from the classic elegance of classical to the soulful embrace of jazz and blues, and the pulsating beats of popular music and dance. We urge our students to compose and perform across this rich spectrum, nurturing their talents and fueling their passion.

Elevating Musical Skills: Building a Musical Toolkit Our KS3 curriculum not only resonates with diversity but also hones vital musical skills. We equip pupils with the ability to perform on a diverse range of instruments, encourage creative composition across a tapestry of styles, and immerse them in listening experiences that traverse cultures and traditions. As they traverse this melodic landscape, they acquire the essential theoretical foundation that will stand them in good stead for further exploration in KS4 and KS5.

Creating Harmonious Vistas: Expanding Artistic Horizons As our pupils progress through KS3, their musical journey evolves. They are encouraged to cultivate their artistic talents through engaging projects. From crafting radio shows to remixing melodies, and even orchestrating music for the silver screen, their musical repertoire flourishes in the embrace of creative projects that extend beyond the conventional notes and rhythms.

KS3 Curriculum Map

Pearson BTEC Tech Award Level 1/2 in Music Practise

Unveiling the Industry: A Prelude to the Music World The BTEC Tech award in Music Practice orchestrates an introduction to the dynamic realm of the music industry. Through a carefully curated selection of specialist units that combine Music Performance and Music Technology, students are set on a journey of discovery. With each note and beat, they acquire not just practical skills, but also a deep-seated industry knowledge that will set the stage for further studies or even a career within; but not limited to, the music domain.

A Vocational Overture: Unveiling realistic industry expectations we harmonise the educational experience by offering students a symphony of vocational opportunities, catering to their preferences and focusing on their chosen specialist units. Through this immersion, they gain insights into the intricacies of the industry and foster a tangible sense of what it truly entails. It’s not just about honing practical skills or nurturing creativity, but about cultivating a holistic understanding that bridges theoretical knowledge with real-world application.

Pathways to the Musical Stage: As our students traverse the course, they embark on three components that are broken into smaller learning aims, with their stylistic intentions tailored to each learners passion and needs.

Exploring Music Products and Styles: In this component, you will develop your understanding of different types of music products and the techniques used to create them. You will explore how musical elements, technology and other resources are used in the creation, production and performance of music. You will also practically explore the key features of different styles of music and music theory and apply your knowledge and understanding to developing your own creative work.

Musical Skills Development: In this component, you will participate in workshops and classes where you will develop technical, practical, personal and professional skills and specialise in at least two of the following areas: music performance, creating original music, music production. Throughout your development, you will review your progress and consider how to make improvements. You will learn how musicians share their work and collaborate with others, and will develop your skills as a musician in how to use blogs, YouTubeTM, SoundcloudTM and other platforms to share your work and skills development with others.

Responding To A Musical Brief:  This component will allow you to work to your strengths and interests and apply the skills that you have learnt throughout your course in a practical way. You will focus on a particular area of the music sector that excites and appeals to you and respond to a music brief as a composer, performer or producer. This is our externally moderated exam assessment.

In this journey, we endeavour to foster not just musicians, but creators who understand the pulsating rhythm of the music industry. The BTEC Tech Award Lvl 1/2 in Music Practice resonates with aspiration, igniting the passion for musical exploration and laying the foundation for a harmonious future in the world of sound.

Curriculum Map BTEC

We offer both Music and Music Technology at the Ortu Sixth Form Centre.

These courses allow our a level students to stretch their performing, composing, sequencing and technical skills to the brink of professional standards.

Harmonizing Creativity Beyond the Classroom: The Music Department’s Crescendo

Unleashing Melodic Expression The Music Department strikes a harmonious chord by extending the realm of creativity beyond the classroom. We orchestrate a symphony of ensembles that play their melodies during and after school, serving as conduits for students' artistic expression. These ensembles encompass an orchestra, a choir, a guitar group, and the vibrant band club. The musical tapestry further extends to our Rock School, a collaborative venture with Thurrock Music Services, enriching Monday evenings with rhythm and melody.

Staging the Musical Canvas: Concerts and Events Throughout the year, our stage becomes a canvas for musical masterpieces. A vibrant array of concerts and events bloom, each a testament to the passion and dedication of our students. Yet, it is the annual crescendo, the Music Roadshow, that leaves an indelible mark on the community. This legendary showcase features over 100 pupils harmonizing their talents, extending an enchanting symphony that resonates with our neighboring primary schools.

Masterful Mentorship: Professional Musicians and Lessons Our corridors echo with the footsteps of accomplished visiting musicians, professionals in the traditional and pop music spheres. This confluence of expertise provides a nurturing environment for students to learn and evolve. For those keen to embark on a musical journey, parents are invited to invest in their child's potential by participating in our esteemed scheme. Additionally, we invite year 7 pupils to explore new horizons through trial lessons, especially on orchestral instruments.

Empowering Crescendos: Where Passion Finds Voice The Music Department isn’t just about notes and rhythm; it’s a platform where passion finds its voice. As we foster musicians, we also nurture lifelong enthusiasts who carry the spirit of music into their futures. Our melodies don't simply fade away; they linger in the hearts of our students, inspiring creative symphonies that resonate far beyond the walls of our school.

Miss F. Beamish - Department leader
Mr. R Taylor

Peripatetic Teachers

Mr Brian Greenaway Drums
Mr Wallace Piano/Keyboard
Mr Lund Woodwind
Miss Elliot Voice
Mr Porter

Books:

1. "Music Theory: From Beginner to Expert - The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide to Understanding and Learning Music Theory Effortlessly" by Nicolas Carter:

   • This book provides a comprehensive guide to music theory, suitable for beginners and those looking to deepen their understanding.

2. "Turn it Up!: A Pitch-Perfect History of Music That Rocked the World" by National Geographic Kids:

   • Explore the history of music across genres and cultures, making learning engaging and accessible.

3. "The Classical Music Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained" by Katie Durham:

   • This book simplifies complex classical music concepts, offering insights into key compositions and composers.

YouTube Channels:

1. Adam Neely (https://www.youtube.com/user/havic5):

   • Adam Neely's channel covers a wide range of music-related topics, including theory, composition, and analysis.

2. TwoSetViolin (https://www.youtube.com/user/twosetviolin):

   • Enjoy humor-infused violin performances, music challenges, and discussions of classical music.

Magazines:

1. BBC Music Magazine (https://www.classical-music.com/):

   • BBC Music Magazine features articles, reviews, and insights into classical music and artists.

2. Rolling Stone (https://www.rollingstone.com/music/):

   • Rolling Stone covers contemporary music, including news, reviews, and interviews with artists.

Quizzes and Interactive Learning:

1. MusicTheory.net (https://www.musictheory.net/):

   • Access interactive lessons and exercises to practice music theory concepts and notation.

2. Sporcle - Music Quizzes (https://www.sporcle.com/games/tags/music) - Sporcle offers a variety of music quizzes to test your knowledge of genres, artists, and music history.

BTEC Level 2