Music

At Highfields we offer a broad and balanced music curriculum that ranges from Year 7 to Year 13.

Key Stage 3

At Key Stage 3, students follow a linear experience. Elements of music are introduced in a carefully sequenced way to build on prior knowledge. Students apply each new concept to a singular piece of music. Students are given time to develop their technique on a singular instrument, rather than many small projects on different instruments. This leads to a far deeper understanding of how the elements combine to produce a successful piece of music. Students apply the elements to composition on YuStudio and consider how the elements work when listening to a variety of pieces of music across different styles. 

The elements are:

• Duration (rhythm)

• Pitch

• Harmony

• Tempo

• Dynamics

• Articulation

• Tonality
  

This linear experience prepares students very well to take their chosen instrument further into GCSE Music.

Key Stage 4

Students can opt to study music in Year 9 where they prepare for GCSE music by focusing on a specific instrument both in a solo and ensemble context, also using this time to develop their skills in composing. Students also prepare for the appraising component of GCSE music by listening to music and responding critically.

In Year 10/Year 11, students study the Eduqas GCSE Music qualification. More information on the qualification can be found by clicking on the link on the right or by following this link to the exam board website.

Key Stage 5

In Year 12/Year 13, students study the Edexcel Level 3 Extended Certificate in Music Performance qualification. More information on the qualification can be found by clicking on the link on the right or by following this link to the exam board website.

We are proud of the continued growth of both GCSE and A level music numbers here at Highfields and hope to see the ongoing success of the students in this subject.