Music
The Music department has a clear ethos to make music enjoyable and relevant for all. We hope you will see this in the various topics taught and through the range of activities available in our Extra- Curricular Activities. Pupils consolidate the skills learnt from their previous school and develop listening, appraisal, improvisation, composition and performance skills, along with understanding of music theory through the following projects:
Soundtracks and Film Music
During this in-depth study of programme music, pupils will explore descriptive and emotive use of musical devices, with particular focus on leitmotif, and will understand the influence of music from the Romantic Era on modern film music composers. They will learn to use graphic scores, and compose their own soundtracks and film music.
Jazz and Blues
Through practical and aural work pupils will develop knowledge of the 12 Bar Blues and understand the influence and use of this chord sequence across jazz and rock genres. They will gain historical understanding of the origins of blues and jazz music, develop their keyboard skills and learn to improvise both rhythmically and melodically on a variety of instruments.
Drums of the World
An exploration of music traditions from Africa and Asia, with specific focus on rhythmic and compositional devices. Pupils will learn about the role of music in different cultures and learn alternative compositional methods, whilst gaining knowledge of ethnic instruments such as the gamelan and djembe. They will compose their own music using cyclic patterns.
Extra-curricular music
The Music department actively encourages all girls to take part in at least one of the many free extra-curricular musical activities on offer. In Year 7 this includes Glee Choir, Ukulele Club, Concert and Training Orchestras, String ensembles, Flute Choir, Guitar Ensemble, Razzmajazz, Strood Consort, and Aural & Theory sessions. All of these groups cater for different standards, so the girls are welcome to join any group which is appropriate for developing their individual musical skills.
Instrumental lessons
In addition, there are opportunities for girls to learn a musical instrument as a paid extra-curricular activity. These include flute, recorder, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, violin, viola, cello, double bass, drum-kit, trumpet, trombone, piano, guitar and singing.
If you have any queries about this curriculum, please contact: Miss Kirsty Nimmo, Head of Music, on kn@farlingtonschool.com