Music
Introduction
Our Music curriculum at KPHS is designed to inspire creativity, confidence and a lifelong appreciation of music. Through performing, composing, listening and evaluating, students develop the knowledge, technical skills and cultural understanding needed to become confident and expressive musicians. As a member of the Music in Secondary Schools Trust (MISST), all year 7 students follow the Andrew Lloyd Webber curriculum and are provided with their own orchestral instrument - the trumpet - through which their music lessons are delivered. This ensures every student can access high-quality musical opportunities regardless of prior experience or background. This has been a really exciting development in our quest to create musicians at KPHS.
At Key Stage 3, students build strong foundations in rhythm, melody, harmony and performance through practical and engaging musical experiences. In year 7, students focus on mastering the basics of instrumental performance by developing correct trumpet technique, learning to read stave notation through pitch and rhythm, understanding key musical theory and learning how to rehearse and practise effectively. Students also develop listening skills through singing, playing by ear, discussing music using appropriate vocabulary and assessing both their own and others’ performances.
Students then apply these foundations to develop more advanced performance skills through solo and ensemble work. Students learn how to shape music using dynamics and articulation while developing confidence and expression in their playing. Ensemble performance becomes a key focus as students learn to collaborate effectively, rehearse together and perform as part of a group. Students also study the instruments of the orchestra and have opportunities to perform alongside students from other MISST schools, experiencing the excitement and discipline of playing within a full orchestral sound.
As students progress through Key Stage 3 and into Key Stage 4, they deepen their understanding of performance, composition and listening through exposure to a wide range of genres, traditions and historical periods. The curriculum develops resilience, discipline and creativity while encouraging students to think critically, communicate effectively and express themselves with confidence.
How Music Supports Our School Values
We Co-operate
Music helps students understand that collaboration leads to greater musical success. Through ensemble rehearsals, performances and composition tasks, students learn teamwork, communication and mutual respect while supporting one another to achieve shared goals.
We Pioneer
Music encourages students to take creative risks, refine their ideas and discover their potential. Through performing, composing and improvising, students develop independence, resilience and confidence in their own musical abilities.
We Belong
By exploring music from a range of cultures, traditions and viewpoints, students learn that music is for everyone. Inclusive ensemble experiences and shared performances help students feel valued, connected and part of a wider musical community both at KPHS and beyond.
Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) in Music
Studying Music develops creativity, discipline, teamwork, communication, and performance skills. Students also build technical knowledge, aural awareness, and analytical abilities, all of which are highly valued in careers that involve creativity, collaboration, and technical expertise.
Career Areas Linked to Music:
- Performance & Professional Musicianship – applying instrumental, ensemble, and performance skills in live, recorded, or collaborative contexts.
- Composition, Production & Sound Engineering – using creativity, technical knowledge, and problem-solving to create, record, and produce music.
- Education & Teaching – developing musical knowledge, practical skills, and the ability to guide and inspire learners of all ages.
- Media, Journalism & Cultural Communication – analysing, reporting, and promoting music, culture, and performance through writing, digital media, and broadcasting.
- Research, Ethnomusicology & Music History – applying analytical and interpretive skills to study music across cultures, history, and social contexts.
For more information about careers linked to Music, visit: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/groups/cn3zjnnjk8gt