The primary intent of our 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 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, children 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, evaluating, analysing and composing across a wide variety of historical periods, styles, traditions and musical genres. This includes, Blues, popular and classical orchestral music, film music and music from countries such as Africa and Brazil.
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, pushing past obstacles with unwavering determination 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.
Curriculum Intent for Year 9
In Year 9, students will study the melodies and sounds for cinematic scenes and learn about the leitmotifs of iconic films like Harry Potter, diving into the art of musical storytelling. Through hands-on workshops and engaging lessons, students master the essential elements of music composition, from harmony and melody to rhythm and dynamics. They’ll put their skills to the test as they create their own short soundtrack for a scene straight out of the wizarding world. Students will also explore popular music, learning about the evolution of contemporary music styles. With solos or ensemble performances of their choice, students will have opportunity to showcase their creativity and musical interests.
Curriculum Map for Year 9
Dance, Drama and Music lessons are taught on termly carousel. Students will spend 1 term in each discipline receiving a double lesson each week.
Music (1st Half term) Music for film
Music (2nd Half term) Popular music / free choice
Extra-curricular activities
Paid Peripatetic lesson are available to all students
Our Choir is led by County Music Services
Our School Band (Manor Musicians) is led By Mrs Plunkett
All students have opportunity to perform at the Church Christmas Carol Concert and School music concerts.
All students will have the opportunity to audition for our annual school musical
| Yr9 Music Rotation 1 | Our first topic is Music for Films Students will learn about Leitmotif and how music can be associated with a particular character and theme. They will learn how the musical elements – pitch, tempo, dynamics, timbre and texture can create mood and atmosphere, drive visual action and how it can indicate time and place. Students will learn how to play film themes and then create their own music and sound effects to a scene from Harry Potter. |
| Film music is studied as part of the GCSE music course and the topic prepares students well for this. The students will be assessed at the end of the topic with a listening test to ascertain their understanding of the key concepts and theory learnt throughout the topic. The practical assessment is the composition. | |
| Yr9 Music Rotation 2 | Our second topic is Popular Music Students will study a range of genres such as Pop, Rock, Rap, Soul and Jazz, learning about the history of the styles and how they have developed. Students will be given the opportunity to choose their preferred style and rehearse a piece as a solo or group performance. |
| This unit is linked to the Performing unit required at GCSE Music. Students work is assessed using GCSE performance assessment criteria to give them an understanding of the realities of rehearsing and performing at KS4. This also helps students decide if GCSE music is a suitable option for them. |