Music and Performance
Music is taught for one hour a fortnight to KS3 where students develop their skills in three major activities; listening and appraising, composing and performing. They study a range of different genres in each year including classical music, world music and popular music and are encouraged to showcase their talents in concerts held at the school.
Students can choose music as part of their options where they can follow the GCSE syllabus.
Many students enjoy a range of extra musical activities such as keyboard clubs, karaoke, rock & pop choir. Instrumental lessons are available for students to learn and instrument through our music hub - Berkshire Music Trust.
Music plays an essential role in a students’ education and wellbeing. When a student engages in music education it can increase emotional intelligences, create a more positive attitude to other studies, and grow self-confidence. When you make music, it engages many different areas of the brain, including visual, auditory and motor areas, therefore helps to create a more rounded individual.
Music GCSE
This course is suited to aspiring musicians and vocalists. Students will follow the AQA specification.
You will be expected to regularly practice your instrument/voice outside of structured lessons. You will also gain experience in music technology thorugh the composition unit.
The course covers three components:
- Understanding Music - 90 minute exam paper at the end of Year 11
- Performing Music - two separate performances on your instrument/voice (one solo and one group)
- Composing Music - two separate compositions (one to a brief and one free)
Performance (Musical Theatre) BTEC Level 3
This qualification offers an engaging programme to support learners who want to pursue a career in musical theatre. This size of qualification allows learners to study related and complementary qualifications alongside it, without duplication of content. It can prepare learners for a range of Apprenticeships in performance-related areas.
When taken alongside further Level 3 qualifications, it supports access to a range of higher education courses in the performing arts sector, such as the BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre at ArtsEd or BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre.
Students must have good stage, screen and vocal presence both as an actor and a singer. Students must have the ability to enter into another character and engage with an audience.
A good understanding of dramatic techniques and creative insight are also required. A genuine understanding and interest in Musical Theatre are also necessary. Students should have the ability to memorise lines and having the confidence, energy and dedication to perform as well as the ability of combining the triple threat skills of Acting, Singing and Dancing.
Standard entry requirements including GCSE grade 4 Maths plus grade 5 GCSE English Language and English Literature. Grade 5 in GCSE Performing Arts, Drama or Music is also desirable. If you have not taken GCSE Performing Arts, Drama or Music, you will be asked to provide details of your interest in the subject outside of the school context and may be called for a short audition.
Mr B Slade
Head of Performing Arts
bslade@kgaprospect.uk
Ms S Williams
Music Teacher
swilliams@kgaprospect.uk