The Music department at Arthur Mellows Village College is a vibrant and exciting place to learn and enjoy music. We teach a varied curriculum, focusing on students engaging in practical activities in a wide range of musical styles and traditions. We are fortunate to have a purpose built music technology room, complete with Apple Mac computers running a variety of musical software.

 

We have two full time members of staff and a range of peripatetic staff that teach instrumental lessons within the department. Lessons are available on Strings, Woodwind, Voice, Guitar/Bass, Piano and Keyboard.

Our extracurricular activities are many, with groups including senior band, junior band choir, jazz band, brass band, theory and a variety of band workshops and gifted and talented activities. Many students are actively involved in the Music department, and we put on several concerts every year, as well as working with the other expressive arts disciplines to put on a major show every year. We have an open-air performance every half term, which is very popular for students of all Year Groups. 

 

At Key Stage 3, students follow a programme of activities that encourages them to be performing musicians, creative composers and inquisitive listeners. All students sing, and all students learn the basic skills on Keyboards and Drum Kit.

 

All students have the opportunity to develop and extend their composition and performance through music technology. We feel it is important that all students understand the history of music, as well as the relevance of popular musical styles. 

 

At Key Stage 4 we run the BTEC Tech Award in Music Practice. This is a popular option in Years 10 and 11, and students are very successful. All students develop their skills in performance, composition and listening to music.

 

At Key Stage 5 we offer the Level 3 Extended Certificate in Music Practice.  Students in these groups are very involved in the musical life of the school, often running clubs for students lower in the school.  Many of our students go on to study music-related courses at university.