Music

The Music faculty consists currently of four members of staff. Music classes are held in specialist Music rooms D1.7, D1.4, D1.5 and J1. Rooms each contain pianos, stereo systems, percussion and guitar sets. There are two additional practice rooms containing pianos and drum kits.

Teaching and Learning

Canvas learning modules are utilised in Stage 4, and these contain complete units of work on a variety of musical styles and integrate the concepts of music. There is regular testing, homework and research, and students undertake performing, composing and musicology/aural activities during class time.

In Stage 5, students undertake semester courses. Topics are again varied, and students attend regular lessons (including double periods) focusing on performing, composing, musicology/aural skills. Testing takes place at the end of units. Performance activities include regular concert practices, group and ensemble tasks, composing integrating technology and arranging.

A unique recording course is offered in Stage 5, which makes use of our recording studio, equipped with state-of-the art facilities located in upper B block. Students undertaking this course complete a recording project and learn to use a variety of music software including Cubase, Studio 1 and Sibelius.

In Stage 6, year 11 courses offered are Music 1 and 2, and in year 12 Extension Music is also offered. Classes are scheduled during the normal timetable period, lunch time, as well as before and after school for Music 2 and Extension classes. Students from these classes are regularly invited to perform at events and concerts. Whilst Music 1 is a performance based course, Music 2 requires a solid background in music theory, highly developed score reading and sight singing.

Technology is embedded in each Music course in Stages 4-6, and students experience creative and arranging activities involving the use of computers, Canvas and the internet.