Staff; Mrs J. Bryce (Head of Department); Mr K. Beare,
Key Stage Three
All students in Years 8, 9 and 10 have two periods of Music per week. Schemes of work cover a range of musical styles and genres, with the aim of developing the students’ understanding and experiences. Students study a blend of content that ranges from musical theory, musical movements and eras, and practical music skills that will consolidate the learning process. Students who have private tuition are encouraged to make good use of their talent within the classroom.
Key Stage Four
Music GCSE students must be able to play an instrument or sing to a suitable level for the performance component.
Music GCSE encourages students to develop their musical potential by focusing on the three fundamental activities of performing, composing and listening and appraising.
What will I study?
Students explore contrasting music from a range of contexts in set Areas of Study, which are classical, pop, film and traditional Irish music. This deepens their appreciation of the diverse heritage of music. It also promotes their personal, social, intellectual and cultural development. Students will complete two compositions, based on the above areas of study as coursework. For the practical exam in Year 12 students will perform a solo and a group piece and the course completes with a written aural exam based on the set works also from the above areas of study. Regular class concerts help students develop their performance skills.
Where will it take me?
Progression pathways include further study, for example our GCE (A-Level) in Music, or one of the BTEC Music courses and a career in performance, composing, teaching, music production, sound engineering, or instrument making and repair. Related career areas include arts management and music journalism. Students are also encouraged to maintain their musical skills whether they continue with music education or a career in the industry. Students are made aware of the possibilities of gaining a secondary income by using their skills alongside their main study focus or source of income.
Research shows that studying music can help students develop critical thinking, spatial reasoning and cognitive skills. It also helps develop communication skills and encourages creativity and expressiveness. Students who play music as part of a group develop team-working skills, self-discipline, self-esteem and the ability to listen to others.
Where can I get more information?
Please have a chat with Mrs Bryce or Mr Beare about the course. You can also look on the CCEA website. https://www.rewardinglearning.org.uk/microsites/music/revised_gcse/index.asp
Extra-Curricular
At Strangford Integrated College we have private tutors who come in weekly - Singing, Piano, Guitar, Bass Guitar, Drum Kit, Ukulele, Mandonlin, Harp and Violin.
Extra-Curricular clubs run each week and lead towards performances throughout the year. We have Choirs as well as a Folk Group and many Rock/Pop school bands. Christmas is always a very busy time, with various trips, performing at local nursing homes and our Christmas Services in school and at the local church.
Lunchtime concerts are also popular for performances throughout the year, giving singers and musicians a great opportunity to showcase their talent. Other big events in our schedule include Busking at Break for various charities and our large Spring Concert.
Our aim is that every student has the chance to develop, no matter their skill level, and fully experience life in our vibrant Music Department.
