James Brindley School - A Bridge For Learning

    Subjects

    Music

     Autumn

    Y7 
    Introduction to Music - Covering key musical elements, basic terminology, reading graphic scores & instruments of the orchestra
    Composition with Garageband - Recording and arranging samples to create musical pieces (Game Music)
     
    Y8
    Music Theory - Major & minor chords and scales. listening and evaluating form/structure of different music styles. Composition in Musescore software.
    Composition with Ableton - MIDI programming, sampling and synthesis to create structured musical pieces. (Film Music)
     
    Y9
    Music Theory - Key signatures and chord extensions. Listening and appraising texture and timbre of different music styles. Composition in Musescore software
    Composition with Ableton - using MIDI & audio to develop a musical piece. Using effects plugins to mix and master a track. (Dance Music)
     

     Spring

    Y7 
    Keyboard Skills & Musical Notation - Reading and playing the treble and bass clef. (Baroque, Classical & Romantic Era's)
    Popular Music - Learning about band Instruments (Contemporary Pop & Rock) 
     
    Y8
    Ukulele Skills - Reading chord charts and basic tablature. (Folk Music)
    Popular Music - Using a variety of tuned and percussive instruments to create a group performance. (Contemporary Pop & Rock)
     
    Y9
    Band Instruments - Reading and performing music for Guitar, Keyboard, Drums, Ukulele & Bass. (Country Music)
    Popular Music - Group performance focusing on improvisation using pentatonic/blues scales. (Jazz & Blues)
     

     Summer

    Y7
    Introduction to DJ'ing - Understanding tempo, beats and mixing songs together using Virtual DJ. (Electronic Music)
    Lyric writing/singing - Analysing the lyrics of a reggae piece. 
     
    Y8
    DJ skills - Mixing tracks in Virtual DJ. Utilising hot cues, samples, effects and EQ mixing. (Electronic Music)
    Lyric writing/singing - pop songs & ballads.
     
    Y9
    DJ'ing with Ableton - Using song samples, effects and external hardware to create a minimix. (R&B, HipHop)
    Lyric writing/singing - rap music.
     

     How is the course assessed

    Pupil progress will be monitored throughout each unit. Assessment will based on pupils ability to listen to, respond to, create and review music and will take place throughout each unit. Teachers will record progress in the following ways at four points during the year: 

    • N = No Progress
    • P- = Making less than expected progress
    • P = Making expected progress
    • P+ = Making more than expected progress
     

    All marking will follow the James Brindley Feedback Policy and will be based on practical work, oral and aural response and written work.

     How can you support your child at home

    Encourage your child to listen to a wide range of music and discuss your likes and dislikes. Access  https://www.bbc.co.uk/education/subjects/zmsvr82

    (BBC Bitesize music KS3) for music topics and skill development.

    It will be extremely beneficial for your child to have access to a real musical instrument whilst at home. If you would like advice on purchasing an instrument for your child, please feel free to email Mr Sullivan (sullivanb@jamesbrindley.bham.sch.uk).

    If you are unable to access a real instrument, utilise free smartphone and tablet apps that promote the development of musical skills including virtual keyboards, guitars and drumkits.

    If your child is learning to play a musical instrument, encourage them to practise for at least 15 minutes per day.

    A pair of over ear headphones will also be useful for music technology related activities. 
     

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