Music
Music is important for all children and plays a big part in the life of the school within the Trust. Every pupil from Reception right up to Year 6 get a weekly music lesson with a dedicated specialist Music Teacher.
Each music dept. in the Pegasus Academy Trust has its own individual style and each school offers a variety of musical opportunities for its Pupils.
Please click here to take a virtual tour of Ecclesbourne Primary School’s “Jam-Bus,” one of the jewels in our musical crown.
Intent
At Pegasus we are building a culture where music is for everyone. We want to give children the spark that makes them recognise their musical potential and develop a personal appreciation of the value of music.
We want children to have a curiosity for music and respect the role that it plays in any person’s life. Our music curriculum enables children to see themselves reflected in the musicians and composers we listen to and be inspired by these musical role models that reflect the world: past, present and future, in all its diversity.
Pupils will become confident in performing, both in singing and using a range of instruments. They will be given the opportunity to appreciate recorded and live performances by their peers and musicians as well as take part in class and annual whole school performances and productions.
We intend to inspire musicians of the future and create a passion for music in all our children that will stay with them for a lifetime
Implementation
The initial scheme of work is centred around ‘Charanga’, an online based curriculum with resources for each teacher to tailor to their individual skill set. This is then adapted to suit each school’s separate resources and circumstances. Basic instrumental performing, composing and the embedding of musical keywords for listening and analysis are all part of our rich curriculum. We review, return and build on these strands so that we develop the children’s long-term memory always teaching musical knowledge in meaningful contexts and adapted to include cross curricular links.
Each half-termly scheme of work provides an opportunity for performance. For instance, when studying Reggae, pupils will at first learn to play a reggae piece, then to compose with the key features of reggae (slow tempo, offbeat chords,) and then form a group to be a “reggae band” to display their knowledge to their peers. Many practical elements are filmed so that pupils can watch their own performances back in order to judge strengths and areas for development.
In KS1 and KS2 we support students in peripatetic instrumental lessons so further skills on instruments and music theory can be developed in a smaller group setting. Formal examinations are also available to pupils who show excellent aptitude including music instrumental grades and the ABRSM Music Theory Exams.
Singing is a core skill in all schemes of work as this is truly the most universal way human beings can share music together. We deliver singing assemblies every week and all Key Stages are encouraged to sing as a group and solo if they wish to.
Music is an integral part of primary school life, which enhances key events and celebrations that happen throughout the year. In both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, music is used to create a sense of occasion and community as well as an opportunity for performance
Impact
Our music curriculum has a significant impact on our children’s development, fostering a range of skills that go beyond musical ability. Through carefully structured cyclic curriculum, performance opportunities and assessments, children develop their creativity, teamwork, confidence, communication, memory and concentration and most importantly their self-esteem. Our curriculum also promotes cultural awareness of the wider world by introducing children to diverse musical styles and traditions.
Additionally, participating in school productions and assemblies helps children build a sense of achievement and pride in their work, while strengthening the bond of the community within the school. Overall, the music curriculum plays a crucial role in enhancing both personal growth and social development, supporting the education of our children.
