Music
We are all musicians
At St. Michael's, the vibrant heartbeat of our curriculum is music, fostering an environment where every child is both a learner and a creator. We believe that every child has the opportunity to engage in ensemble playing, enriching their musical experience and encouraging collaboration. Singing is our golden thread, seamlessly woven throughout all aspects of our teaching, creating a unified approach to musical education.
We ensure that our Upper Key Stage 2 pupils receive instruction in the keyboard while our Lower Key Stage 2 students learn the ukulele, both of which support their understanding of musical notation. We are committed to developing essential learning powers, such as teamwork and clear communication, which are integral to our school ethos.
Moreover, we are proud to provide opportunities for children to learn additional instruments through our extracurricular lessons, embracing a variety of genres. This inclusive approach cultivates lifelong musicianship, encouraging creativity and self-expression. St. Michael's is proud to be the 'sing school' of Yeovil, where each child is given the tools and encouragement to explore their musical potential.
Intent
We have designed our Music curriculum so that our learners:
Develop a passion for music, in which pupils learn to appreciate music and develop a life-long love of music.
Develop their skills, knowledge and understanding, to enable them to become confident performers, composers and listeners.
Are introduced to a variety of genres of music from around the world and across generations, recognising the multicultural nature of our school and how we use music as a medium to explore and appreciate British and other cultures
Develop their musical skills through singing, playing tuned and untuned instruments, composing music and responding to music that they listen to.
Develop transferrable skills which are key in their development as learners and have a wider application in their lives both inside and outside of school e.g: team-working, leadership, creative thinking, decision-making and performance skills.
How is Music taught at St Michael's Academy?
Music is taught once a week for 45 minutes, alongside many extra-curricular opportunities on offer.
At St Michael’s Academy, the teaching of music is designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging educational experience that fosters both theoretical understanding and practical application. The curriculum is structured as a balanced amalgamation of music theory and hands-on practice, ensuring that students are not only familiar with the fundamental concepts of music but are also proficient in performing.
A key component of our music education is the exposure to a wide variety of musical genres. This diverse approach enriches the students' understanding of music's cultural significance and encourages them to explore their individual preferences. Throughout their time at the academy, children will learn to use essential musical vocabulary, which will be embedded and reinforced across the curriculum, enhancing their communication skills in the context of music.
Every child will be taught musical notation, which is crucial for their development as musicians. Furthermore, opportunities for composition and performance will be made available, allowing students to express their creativity and hone their skills in a supportive environment.
Beginning in Year 3, all children will receive instruction in playing the ukulele, an instrument that fosters both enjoyment and foundational musical skills. In Year 5, the focus shifts to the keyboard, encouraging students to broaden their instrumental capabilities.
Performance is an integral aspect of our music programme. In Year 4, pupils will partake in a Christmas pantomime, while Year 6 students will have the opportunity to showcase their talents in an end-of-year musical. Additionally, children from other year groups are encouraged to participate in various concerts throughout the academic year and join musical ensembles or singing groups, thereby nurturing their confidence and collaborative skills in musical settings. In summary, our approach to music education at St Michael's Academy is designed to be both inclusive and enriching, equipping students with the skills necessary for a lifelong appreciation and understanding of music.
Curriculum documents
Vocabulary is V.I.T.A.L in Music
Valued
We value vocabulary in music and in everything we do.
Identified
Musical vocabulary is identified by the music subject leader and is explicitly planned for.
Taught
Vocabulary is explicitly taught in every lesson. Our Musical Journeys are used as a teaching tool for key music vocabulary and the music medium term plans include additional vocabulary to be taught.
Applied
Once vocabulary is taught, it is applied. Children apply their vocabulary in their listening and appraising, performance and evaluating outcomes in music.
Learned
Vocabulary is revisited and relearned. Vocabulary sticks in the children’s long-term memory. Lesson by lesson, year by year, children revisit and relearn key musical vocabulary.
Musical performances
Musical Moments to remember! 2023 - 2024
The academic year 2023-2024 has been a remarkable journey for our school community, marked by the embracing of a vibrant musical culture that has enriched the experiences of our children. Year 5 truly excelled when they collaborated with Jack Dawes to stage a fantastic performance of 'The Barber of Seville.' After weeks of diligent rehearsals, the children dazzled audiences alongside two other local schools, creating cherished memories that families will hold dear forever. The drive and determination exhibited by each child were nothing short of commendable.
Year 6 stole the spotlight with their rendition of Bugsy Malone. Every single student played a part, embodying various roles that brought the story to life. The emotional performances brought tears to the eyes of many, making it a truly inspiring show. Excitingly, next year's production, The Lion King, promises to capture our imagination once again.
Year 4 also shone brightly with their performance, 'A Hint of Snow White.' The confidence and articulation displayed on stage were incredible, a testament to the hard work of our dedicated team. Parents, local schools, and our school community beamed with pride as the children took to the stage.
Throughout the year, we offered numerous musical experiences, including opera workshops, a visit from a sea shanty band, and Rocktopus sessions where students crafted lyrics that reflect our school values. Our Christmas choir tour a joyous occasion that saw the children entertain the elderly, the local community, and family.
Not to forget, events like the summer concert and Summer Fest provided fantastic opportunities for families to appreciate the cultural capital within our school, featuring local artists and ex-pupils who inspired us all along their musical journeys. Overall, this year has indeed been a highlight, brimming with creativity, passion, and community spirit.
