• Folk - guitar and penny whistle introduction, song writing and composing in a particular style using available resources
• Blues - 12 bar blues, blues scales, improvisation, song writing and cultural origins
• Reggae - stylistic composing/performing and minor/major chords
• Salsa - performance/rhythmic skills

Year 9

• Theme and variations - creating variations on a given theme, extend knowledge of chord structures/harmony, Ground Bass and Chaconne
• Swing/Be-Bop/Progressive Rock - extended chords (7ths etc.), stylistic improvisation, performance and composition
• Choices - composing to a given brief, film music, pop song, music for a special occasion, dance and orchestral land marks

Assessment

This will be undertaken during each of the topic areas for both composition and performance in line with the National Curriculum level descriptors. Pupils will be expected to appraise their compositions and performances at all times.


Instrumental Lessons

Many pupils continue with instrumental lessons and all have the opportunity to start instrumental lessons. Lessons are currently available for:

• Bass
• Brass (Cornet, Euphonium, Trumpet, Trombone and Tuba)
• Cello
• Guitar
• Keyboard
• Percussion (Drums)
• Violin
• Viola
• Voice
• Woodwind (Bassoon, Clarinet, Flute, Oboe and Saxophone)

Pupils receiving instrumental should check their lesson times and arrive promptly for the lesson. All instrumentalists should be practicing for at least 15 minutes each day.


Ensembles currently operating

• Choir
• Jazz Band
• Orchestra
• Wind Band

All are welcome. Pupils receiving instrumental tuition are expected to take part in at least one ensemble.


Handy Hints for Parents

• Take your child to a live concert.
• Encourage any form of musical activity; we know the drums/electric guitars can be loud!
• If instruments are left on a stand, ready to play, musicians are far more likely to practise.
• We are all different and it may take several attempts before we discover the 'right' instrument for the individual.