Music

Music is the art of the prophets and the gift of God.

- Martin Luther

Music Intent Statement

At St. Columba’s Catholic Primary School, the teaching of music aims to give children diverse experiences including: listening and responding to music from different periods in history, being exposed to music from different cultures as well as gaining the vocabulary to evaluate current music. Music lessons should give children the opportunity to understand the language of music both in terms of the technical vocabulary needed to learn a musical instrument and as a form of communication. Through opportunities to play and compose music together, pupils will be able to experience how music connects and unites people. As a Catholic school, music is an essential part of worship assemblies and children should experience the beauty of singing both in a choir and as a whole school.

Implementation

The music curriculum ensures children sing, listen, play, perform and evaluate. This is embedded in the wider programme of study as well as weekly singing assemblies and opportunities to practice and perform through the Diocese singing provision. In Year 5 and 6, children have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument and in doing so they understand the different principles of creating notes, as well as how to devise and read their own musical scores and basic music notation. Music is incorporated into theme weeks with visits from musicians who give the children opportunities to play as part of a group. Long term curriculum planning includes a variety of composers broadening children’s musical experiences. Composing or performing using body percussion, vocal sounds and technology is also part of the curriculum, which develops the understanding of musical elements without the added complexity of an instrument. SEND and disadvantaged pupils are supported in the learning individually. There is no cap on learning as we want all children to achieve their full potential. Teachers aim to meet all needs through modelling and support.

Impact

As a result of this curriculum, children at St. Columba’s will be able to respond to a variety of music including music from different periods and cultures. Children will be able to enjoy music, in as many ways as they choose – either as listener, creator or performer. They will feel confident when discussing music and comprehending its parts. They will be able to sing, feel a pulse, add rhythms and create melodies in a group and they can further develop these skills in the future and continue to enjoy and embrace music in their lives.

Music Progression

Scan our QR codes to watch some of the events that have included music in school.