Welcome to Performing Arts-Music

The primary intent of our Key Stage 3 music curriculum is to engage, inspire and develop a love and appreciation of music. This is achieved by developing musical skills, understanding music theory and its history and promoting creativity, through listening, composition and performance. Our curriculum provides opportunities for students to engage with various musical genres and cultures and aims to nurture well rounded individuals with an understanding and appreciation of the arts around them. It offers enjoyment and recreation; emotional satisfaction; and opportunities for individual collaboration, creativity and expression.​

Whilst at Castle Manor Academy, students have access to a varied Music programme.​Our intention is that all students gain a firm understanding of what music is, through listening, singing, playing, improvising and composing across a wide variety of historical periods, styles, traditions and musical genres. In Year 7, students will embark on a journey to explore different orchestral instruments, master the layout of the keyboard, and unlock their creative potential through composition. In lessons, students will discover the diverse sounds and roles of orchestral instruments, from the wind and strings to the brass, gaining a deeper understanding of how each contributes to the symphonic ensemble. In addition, they will learn to play the keyboard, setting the foundation for their musical journey and perform a solo piece to their class as well as a keyboard orchestra ensemble. They will also create their own compositions and participate in lively rounds as an ensemble. With singing woven into every lesson, students embrace the joy of vocal expression, rounding out their musical education.

Proud Values

In our vibrant music program, Professionalism shines through every note, as we teach students to approach their lessons with dedication, precision, and a commitment to excellence.

With Resilience as their melody, we teach our students to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and a strong belief in their own potential.

Optimism harmonizes with every chord, infusing our music classes with positivity, creativity, and a boundless sense of possibility as students explore new rhythms, melodies, and harmonies.

In our inclusive music curriculum, Understanding is the key to harmony. We teach students to listen to and appreciate the diverse perspectives and musical styles, fostering a culture of empathy and respect.

Driven by a passion for music, we teach our students to compose their own symphony of success, fuelled by ambition, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of their artistic dreams.

Proudly taking the spotlight, we teach our students to showcase not only their talents but to acknowledge and celebrate student achievements, building confidence and self-esteem.

Teaching staff and facilities

The subject of Music is taught by our experienced Music teacher Mrs Plunkett. Our music department is equipped with a dedicated classroom where students can learn theory and history of music and access our cutting edge iMacs providing access to industry standard software for composition and production. For those seeking a quieter space to perfect their skills, we have 4 practice rooms where students can hone their instrumental skills, refine vocal techniques or collaborate on ensemble performance.

Yr7 Music Rotation 1	Our first topic is Introduction to the Orchestra.  Students will look at the 4 instrument families of the orchestra and where they sit within the ensemble. They will then explore each family in more detail whilst using elements of music and listening activities. Students will also work on keyboard skills, learn the layout of the keyboard and use a simple 5 finger position to learn a piece. With the extension of a bass line or chords if required.  They will rehearse and perform this piece as solo to the class building good habits like focus and perseverance, diligence and creativity, dexterity and hand-eye coordination. Students will also work on their vocal skills through singing each lesson.
	This topic provides students with an understanding of the instruments of the orchestra. By learning to recognise and describe the different elements of music they hear, they will be able to talk and write about music more accurately which is required in the Listening unit at GCSE. Keyboard/pianos make an excellent starting point for any budding musician, because the piano teaches both treble and bass clef while most instruments teach only one or the other. The students will be assessed throughout the topic with listening activities and a small written test at the end of the topic to ascertain their understanding of the key concepts and theory learnt throughout the topic.  The practical assessment is a performance of the keyboard piece as a solo where they are assessed on accuracy, fluency and expression.
Yr7   Music Rotation 2	Our second topic is composing a round on keyboard for 4.   Students will work in groups of 4 to complete a composition of a round and perform. This will be built upon in small guided steps to help students understand the composition process. Students will then perform their composition. Students will then use the instrument voices on keyboard to create a mock orchestra and perform as a whole class. Student will also work on their vocal skills through singing each lesson.
	An understanding of instrumental timbres and techniques is vital for students studying music at KS3 and GCSE.  The students will be assessed throughout and at the end of the topic with listening tests to ascertain their understanding of the key concepts and theory learnt throughout the topic.  The composition and performance will be assessed on accuracy, fluency and expression.

Extra-curricular activities

Paid Peripatetic lesson are available to all students.
Students can join our excellent school choir which is led by County Music Services.
Year 7 students could also join our School Band (Manor Musicians) which is led By Mrs Plunkett.
All Year 7 students have an opportunity to perform at the Church Christmas Carol Concert and School music concerts.
All Year 7 students will have the opportunity to audition for our annual school musical.