Music
Throughout the whole school, the music staff seek to develop an appreciation and understanding of the many diverse styles of music amongst all pupils, as well as nurturing the specially gifted.
The department has an excellent reputation for performance and academic results. Opportunities to take part in choral and instrumental ensembles abound and many pupils from all year groups are involved in a number of weekly rehearsals leading to a wide range of performances. Uptake for GCSE and A Level is good and results have been excellent.
The Sixth Form
All pupils follow the Edexcel course allowing an easy transition from the GCSE. In most years approximately half of the GCSE group choose to continue their music studies to AS or A2 level. At AS, pupils are required to perform on an instrument or voice, compose, study compositional techniques, develop listening skills and analysis of set works. At A2 pupils can choose to concentrate their skills on performance, leading to a recital, or composition, developing a portfolio of two compositions in different styles. Listening, analytical skills and knowledge of styles
and genre are also developed to a much higher level.
and genre are also developed to a much higher level.
Many of our pupils have gone on to study music at University or Music College, leading to careers as conductors, composers, performers and accompanists.
Extra-Curricular
At present, the department offers four choirs: Choristers, “Cantabile¿, Chamber Choir, Junior Singers Instrumental groups include a Concert Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, Junior Orchestra, Swing Band, Flute Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, Latin Jazz Band, Violin Ensemble and various smaller ensembles.
Many other small groups use the facilities to rehearse rock and jazz bands. In the Spring Term the House Song Competition allows all pupils in the school to contribute to house performances and many of our musicians compete in the Isle of Wight Musical Competition Festival.
In the Summer term, the Tour Choir, Orchestra and Swing Band meet to prepare for the annual music tour to Europe, and many of the older pupils rehearse for the summer musical.