Music

Year 7

Topics

• Rhythm n Beats
• Beethoven (keyboard skills)
• Ukulele Skills
• Harmony (chord sequences)
• Musical Theatre

Skills

1. Rhythm and Beats

• Understanding rhythmic notation: Reading and writing rhythms in standard notation, including simple time signatures (e.g., 4/4, 3/4).
• Performing rhythms: Using percussion instruments or body percussion to perform syncopated and polyrhythms.
• Developing ensemble skills: Playing in groups, maintaining a steady beat, and coordinating with others.
• Composing rhythms: Creating original rhythmic patterns and phrases.
• Listening skills: Identifying and analyzing rhythms in different musical styles (e.g., pop, traditional, world music).

2. Beethoven (Keyboard Skills)

• Basic keyboard technique: Proper hand positioning, posture, and finger independence.
• Reading sheet music: Interpreting treble and bass clef for both hands.
• Understanding dynamics and expression: Applying concepts like piano (soft), forte (loud), and legato (smooth playing).
• Playing melodies and accompaniments: Learning simplified versions of Beethoven’s works (e.g., “Ode to Joy”).
• Developing ear training: Recognising motifs and patterns by ear.
• Historical context: Gaining insight into Beethoven's life and the classical era's stylistic features.

3. Ukulele Skills

• Basic chord shapes: Mastering simple chords like C, G, Am, F, and transitioning between them.
• Strumming techniques: Learning different strumming patterns and rhythms.
• Tuning the instrument: Understanding how to tune the ukulele accurately.
• Reading chord charts and tab notation: Interpreting symbols to play melodies and chords.
• Accompanying singing: Playing chords while singing or supporting group performances.
• Ensemble performance: Collaborating in ukulele groups and maintaining timing.

4. Harmony (Chord Sequences)

• Understanding chord progressions: Recognizing common sequences like I-IV-V-I and ii-V-I.
• Building chords: Learning how chords are constructed using scales (triads, major/minor chords).
• Playing chords: Applying this knowledge on keyboards, guitars, or ukuleles.
• Improvising and composing: Creating chord progressions and melodies over them.
• Listening and analysis: Identifying harmonic changes in music and understanding cadences.
• Application to genres: Exploring how harmony works in classical, pop, and jazz music.

5. Musical Theatre

• Singing techniques: Learning proper vocal projection, breathing, and expression for theatrical songs.
• Acting through song: Conveying character and emotion while performing.
• Ensemble singing: Working on harmonies and dynamics in group pieces.
• Stage presence: Developing confidence and understanding stage movements.
• Interdisciplinary skills: Combining music with drama and dance.
• Analysis of musical theatre: Understanding song structures, themes, and character development within shows.

Year 8

Topics

• The Blues
• Reggae
• Melody & Accompaniment: Composition
• Strings & Tings
• Musical Theatre
• Stand By Me

Skills

1. The Blues

• 12-bar blues structure: Understanding and playing the 12-bar blues chord progression (I-IV-V).
• Improvisation skills: Learning to improvise using the blues scale.
• Swing rhythm: Performing with a swung rhythm to capture the blues style.
• Historical context: Exploring the origins of the blues and its cultural significance.
• Call and response: Practicing this traditional blues element in singing and instrumental playing.
• Listening and analysis: Identifying key features of blues music, such as blue notes and expressive performance techniques.

2. Reggae

• Syncopation: Understanding and performing the off-beat emphasis (characteristic of reggae's "skank" rhythm).
• Basslines: Learning repetitive, melodic bass patterns central to reggae.
• Chord rhythms: Strumming simple chords in syncopated rhythms.
• Cultural understanding: Exploring reggae’s roots in Jamaican music and its global impact.
• Listening skills: Identifying elements like laid-back tempos, prominent bass, and vocal styles in reggae songs.
• Group performance: Combining bass, chords, and vocals in ensemble settings.

3. Melody & Accompaniment: Composition

• Melodic writing: Crafting simple, memorable melodies using scales (e.g., pentatonic or major scales).
• Harmonic accompaniment: Creating or playing chord progressions to support melodies.
• Texture and dynamics: Experimenting with different layers and volume to enhance compositions.
• Form and structure: Organising compositions into clear sections (e.g., verse and chorus).
• Notation skills: Writing melodies and accompaniments in standard notation or graphic scores.
• Creative expression: Exploring mood and emotion through melody and harmony.

4. Strings & Tings

• Playing string instruments: Basic techniques for instruments like violins, guitars, or ukuleles.
• Understanding timbre: Exploring the unique sound qualities of string instruments and percussion ("tings").
• Ensemble skills: Combining string and percussion parts in group performances.
• Pitch and tuning: Developing the ability to tune and play in tune.
• Simple notation: Reading and performing from basic notation, including tabs for string instruments.
• World music elements: Incorporating influences from various cultural string and percussion traditions.

5. Musical Theatre

(Building on year 7 skills)

• Additional focus: Exploring how musical elements contribute to storytelling (e.g., leitmotifs, dramatic transitions).

6. Stand By Me

• Chord progressions: Playing the iconic I-VI-IV-V chord progression in the song.
• Bassline playing: Learning and performing the prominent bassline.
• Vocal techniques: Singing harmonies and main melodies with expression and confidence.
• Ensemble performance: Coordinating bass, chords, and vocals in group settings.
• Listening and analysis: Understanding the song’s historical and emotional context.
• Cover versions: Exploring creative ways to reinterpret the song in different styles.

Year 9

Topics

• Jazz: Swing
• Group Performance: Rock, HipHop
• Minimalism: Practical and Composition
• Musical Theatre
• R&B

Skills

1. Jazz: Swing

• Swing rhythm: Understanding and performing the swung eighth-note feel characteristic of jazz.
• Jazz chords: Learning and playing extended chords (e.g., 7ths and 9ths) on piano or guitar.
• Improvisation: Using scales such as the blues scale or pentatonic scale to create solos.
• Ensemble skills: Playing in small jazz groups, focusing on timing and coordination.
• Listening and analysis: Identifying features of swing-era jazz, including big bands and solo improvisation.
• Call and response: Practicing this foundational jazz technique in instrumental or vocal performances.

2. Group Performance: Rock

• Band roles: Understanding the function of each instrument in a rock band (e.g., rhythm guitar, lead guitar, bass, drums, and vocals).
• Chord sequences: Playing power chords and open chords typical in rock music.
• Drum patterns: Learning basic rock rhythms and fills on drum kits or percussion.
• Stage presence: Developing confidence and performance skills suited to live rock performances.
• Collaboration: Working as a group to rehearse, arrange, and perform a rock song.
• Dynamics and energy: Using changes in volume and intensity to enhance performances.

3. Hip-Hop

• Beat-making: Creating rhythmic patterns and beats using percussion or digital audio workstations (DAWs).
• Lyric writing: Writing rhymes and verses that reflect personal expression or storytelling.
• Sampling: Learning about the history and technique of using samples in hip-hop music.
• Rap techniques: Developing rhythm, flow, and clarity in vocal delivery.
• Listening and analysis: Exploring the cultural roots of hip-hop and its evolution as a genre.
• Improvisation: Freestyling lyrics or adding personal touches to beats.

4. Minimalism: Practical and Composition

• Repetition and layering: Creating compositions based on repeated patterns and gradual changes.
• Ostinatos: Developing short, repetitive musical motifs.
• Phasing: Experimenting with rhythmic and melodic displacement between layers.
• Dynamics and texture: Using these elements to build interest in minimalist pieces.
• Ensemble performance: Performing minimalist compositions as a group.
• Notation: Using simple graphical or traditional notation to represent minimalist ideas.

5. Musical Theatre

(Building on Year 8 skills)

• Additional focus: Understanding how instrumental arrangements convey mood and character.

6. R&B

• Groove and rhythm: Exploring smooth, syncopated rhythms in R&B styles.
• Chord progressions: Playing extended chords and smooth transitions.
• Melodic improvisation: Using vocal runs and embellishments typical in R&B singing.
• Harmonisation: Working on rich vocal harmonies in group settings.
• Listening and analysis: Identifying key features of R&B, such as expressive vocal delivery and lush instrumentation.
• Lyrics and emotion: Writing or interpreting lyrics with focus on storytelling and emotion.

Assessment

Performance based end of ½ terms assessed on:

• Accuracy: Play or sing notes and rhythms correctly.
• Timing and Rhythm: Maintain consistent tempo and clear rhythm.
• Dynamics and Expression: Use dynamics and expressive techniques effectively.
• Musicality: Perform with style and connection to the music.
• Ensemble Skills: Coordinate and balance well in group performances.
• Technical Proficiency: Show control of instrument or voice.
• Preparation: Demonstrate evidence of practice and, if required, memorisation.
• Confidence: Perform confidently with engaging stage presence.
• Creativity: Add personal interpretation within the style of the piece.
• Reflection: Assess performance and show improvement over time.

Topics

Component 1: Performing

- Total duration of performances: 4-6 minutes
- A minimum of two pieces, including one ensemble performance of at least one minute duration. The other piece(s) may be either solo and/or ensemble.
- One of the pieces performed must link to an area of study of the learner’s choice.

- Component 2: Composing

- Total duration of compositions: 3-6 minutes
- Two compositions, one in response to a brief set by WJEC, with learners choosing from one of four briefs linked to different areas of study. The briefs will be released during the first week of September in the academic year in which the assessment is to be taken.
- The second composition is a free composition for which learners set their own brief.

- Component 3: Appraising

- Areas of study include:
- Musical Forms and Devices
- Music for Ensemble
- Film Music
- Popular Music
 

Skills

Performing

- Development of performance skills through solo and ensemble pieces.
- Ability to connect performances to specific areas of study.

Composing

- Creative composition skills through responding to set briefs and developing free compositions.
- Understanding of different musical styles and techniques as related to the chosen briefs.

Appraising

- Analytical listening skills through examination of musical extracts.
- Ability to articulate understanding of musical forms, devices, and genres.

Assessment

Component 1: Performing

- Non-exam assessment: internally assessed, externally moderated.
- Contributes 30% of the qualification.

Component 2: Composing

- Non-exam assessment: internally assessed, externally moderated.
- Contributes 30% of the qualification.

Component 3: Appraising

- Written examination: approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
- Assessed via a listening examination with eight questions in total, contributing 40% of the qualification. Two questions are based on extracts set by WJEC.

• Christmas Concert
• Musical/Show
• Summer Concert
• Trips with choir to iSing and other events
• Instrucmental & Vocal tuition available
• Choir

1. Professional Musician: Perform as a solo artist or as part of a band, orchestra, or ensemble in various genres.

2. Music Teacher/Educator: Teach music in schools, private lessons, or community programs, sharing knowledge and fostering a love for music in students.

3. Composer/Songwriter: Create original music for various media, including film, television, theatre, and commercial projects.

4. Music Producer: Work in recording studios to produce and engineer music, collaborating with artists to shape their sound.

5. Sound Engineer: Manage the technical aspects of recording and mixing music, ensuring high-quality sound production.

6. Music Therapist: Use music as a therapeutic tool to help individuals improve their mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

7. Music Journalist/Critic: Write reviews, articles, and features about music, artists, and industry trends for publications or online platforms.

8. Arts Administrator: Work in management roles for music organisations, festivals, or cultural institutions, overseeing operations and programming.

9. Music Licensing Specialist: Help artists and businesses navigate the licensing of music for use in media, advertising, and events.

10. DJ/Live Performer: Perform at events, clubs, and festivals, mixing and creating music live for audiences.

11. Music Supervisor: Select and license music for films, television shows, and advertisements, ensuring the right sound fits the project.

12. Instrument Maker/Repairer: Craft or repair musical instruments, combining craftsmanship with a passion for music.

13. Music Technology Specialist: Work with software and hardware to create, edit, and produce music, often in a studio or live setting.

14. Cultural Program Coordinator: Organise and promote music events, workshops, and festivals within communities or organisations.

15. Music Business Professional: Engage in various roles within the music industry, including marketing, management, and promotion.

Homework

Set day: One every half term
Due day: End of half term
Format/platform: Option of completing on paper or on google classroom
 

Revision

Revision resources available on google classroom 

Engaging in wider reading can greatly enhance young people's understanding and appreciation of music. Here are some recommended categories and specific titles that can provide valuable insights into various aspects of music:

Biographies and Autobiographies
1. "Life" by Keith Richards - An in-depth look at the life of the Rolling Stones guitarist, offering insights into rock music and culture.
2. "Just Kids" by Patti Smith - A memoir that explores the relationship between art and music in the vibrant New York City scene of the 1970s.
3. "The Rest Is Noise: Listening to the Twentieth Century" by Alex Ross - A comprehensive exploration of 20th-century music through the lives of its composers.

Music Theory and Composition
1. "The Complete Musician: An Integrated Approach to Tonal Theory, Analysis, and Listening" by Steven G. Laitz - A thorough introduction to music theory and analysis.
2. "How to Write Songs on Guitar" by Rikky Rooksby - A practical guide for aspiring songwriters focusing on guitar-based composition.
3. "Composing Music: A New Approach" by David Stevenson and David A. Baker - A resource for understanding the fundamentals of music composition.

Music History and Culture
1. "This Is Your Brain on Music: The Science of a Human Obsession" by Daniel J. Levitin - An exploration of the connection between music and the brain, blending science with personal anecdotes.
2. "The Music Book: A Journey Through the History of Music" by DK - A visually engaging overview of music history, covering various genres and influential figures.
3. "The Oxford History of Western Music" by Richard Taruskin - A comprehensive multi-volume work that delves into the history of Western classical music.

Genre-Specific Reading
1. "The Jazz Book: From New Orleans to the 21st Century" by Joachim-Ernst Berendt - A detailed exploration of jazz history, styles, and key figures.
2. "The Story of Pop Music" by David Buckley - An overview of the evolution of pop music, highlighting significant artists and trends.
3. "The Classical Music Book" by DK - An accessible guide to classical music, featuring key composers, works, and movements.

Music and Society
1. "Music and Social Movements: Mobilising Traditions in the Twentieth Century" by Ron Eyerman and Andrew Jamison - An examination of how music has played a role in social change and movements.
2. "How Music Works" by David Byrne - A thoughtful exploration of the relationship between music, culture, and the music industry.
3. "The Rest Is Noise: Listening to the Twentieth Century" by Alex Ross - A narrative history of 20th-century music that connects cultural and historical contexts.

Online Resources and Journals
- "The Journal of Music" - A publication that covers various aspects of music, including reviews, interviews, and articles on contemporary music.
- "Pitchfork" - An online music publication that offers reviews, features, and news about various music genres.
- "NPR Music" - A platform that provides articles, reviews, and live performances across a wide range of musical styles.