Curriculum Intent
At Cedars, the Music Technology curriculum focuses on the teaching and learning of technical skills required to use music sequencing and recording software, in order to give students the opportunity to unlock their creative potential. The technology and software used in lessons is of industry standard, starting students on potential careers within the music industry that they may aspire to. Students learn a range of technical skills through synthesis, sampling, automation, audio routing, and the use of digital effects, which are needed to complete sequencing and production projects. This involves creating and producing their own music in response to a client brief, allowing students to engage in ‘professional’ work and reflect on their success more effectively.
Students also undertake their own individual research into different musical styles, learning about their origins, key musical features and the cultural impact of music. Through this there is an emphasis on musical diversity and eclecticism, which can provide the opportunity to consider social or cultural issues, as well as inform their own music composition. For their own compositions, students write music within their own chosen genre(s), increasing engagement and providing students with the opportunity to take ownership of their work. Students continue to reflect and evaluate their work and progress, creating determined learners who show the resilience to keep improving continuously.
Five top tips for success in subject:
1. Learn to use technical vocabulary comfortably and aim to identify musical features by ear
2. Explore and mess around with the software thoroughly - experimentation really helps you use Logic and plug ins more fluently
3. Regularly reflect on your work, considering its strengths and how you could develop further
4. Take ownership over your work - coursework especially is personal to you; the more you put into it the better it will be
5. Bring what you enjoy about music into your work and lessons
Five big ideas:
Sequencing & Production
Composition
Technical Skills
Reflection
Musical Diversity / Eclecticism