Music
Tarleton Music Department has excellent facilities to promote the study of a wide range of music through listening, performing and composing activities and to enable students to enjoy and appreciate music for life.
Key Stage 3
Throughout Key Stage 3 students will learn about the basic elements of music, composition, performance skills, world music and music technology. Practical skills are developed using new computer technology and keyboards and students are encouraged to take part in group performances, both vocal and instrumental.
GCSE
Music is available as an option at GCSE following the Eduqas exam syllabus. Students enjoy full access to the music technology and recording studio facilities.
Study of the following four units:
Unit 1: Performing Music 30%
- At least one ensemble performance
- At least one other performance (ensemble or solo)
Both performances need to be a combined length of at least 4 minutes. There has to be an ensemble lasting at least one minute.
Unit 2: Composing Music 30%
- Two compositions: One ‘free composition and one set to a brief by the exam board in year 11.
Unit 3: Listening & Appraising 40%
- Listening exam totalling 96 marks in total.
Based on four areas of study: (two areas have a set work which will also be studied in depth)
AOS 1: Form and structure (Set work Eine Kleine Nachtmusik)
AOS 2: Music for Ensemble
AOS 3: Film Music
AOS 4: Popular music (Set work: Rainbow – Since You Been Gone)
Extra Curricular
The curriculum is enhanced by a range of peripatetic teachers who offer tuition on a weekly basis in piano, woodwind, keyboard, drums, guitar, strings and vocals.
The department offers a music education which challenges the able, extends the less able and encourages students to work alongside others with tolerance, co-operation and understanding.
The department runs both ukulele club and choir rehearsals during the school week and students of all abilities are welcome.
The Music Department regularly puts on productions as part of the Creative faculty including the Carol Service, summer concert and musical production.
Homework
Homework tasks will vary for each year group. Below is an outline of the types of activities students will be expected to undertake.
- Watching performances
- Research
- Theory exercises
- Composing exercises
- Practice
- Listening activities
