Music at Newtownhamilton High School
“Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent."
Victor Hugo
The Music Department is a very well equipped department within the school, having recently been furnished with new instruments, including an extensive range of percussion instruments, a drum machine and boom whackers. There is a very strong emphasis placed upon the practical aspect of Music and pupils are given every opportunity to compose, perform and listen to their own music and that of others. The department is certainly a noisy one!!
Assessment is completed continually throughout the year. Listening tests are made up of a combination of rock, pop and classical music, so there is something for everyone! Composition is usually completed in either pairs or small groups, with everyone in the class contributing! The performance aspect is also for everyone.
ICT & Music
The department has been equipped with a new computer on which there are music sequencing and scoring software. This enables all pupils to compose and perform their own music in a new and exciting way! The “Acid” package which is a great hit allows pupils to compose their own rock, pop and dance music which can be transferred onto CD.
There are 3 components to the music curriculum: Composing, Performing and Listening.
Key Stage 3
The following topics are covered at Key Stage 3 during the 3 x 35 minute periods allocated every week.
GCSE Music
Course Content
Areas of study on the syllabus include:
Compulsory: Repeated patterns in Music
Optional: Musical Traditions in Ireland, Incidental Music & Vocal Music
The above areas will be assessed through Listening, Composing and Performing.
Each area is assessed as follows:
Performing
A practical standard of Grade 3-4 is advisable
Ensemble work is also required
A 5 minute discussion with the visiting examiner is also necessary.
It is necessary to have a good knowledge of theory although no theory as such is involved.
Composing
This aspect results from work done in class.
ICT is necessary in the presentation and school is equipped for this with Sibelius 2
Listening
A single test of 1 hour on familiar and unfamiliar work is undertaken
Weighting
35% - Practical – Solo Performance & Ensemble
35% - Listening
30% - Composing
Candidates are required to perform as a soloist and also in an ensemble. Generally musicians from other classes in school are willing to help out during this requirement.
Any pupil undertaking music at GCSE level must contribute to the choir.
Career Possibilities
The subject is essential for musicians and is helpful for careers in media studies, teaching, speech therapy, occupational therapy, library work and journalism.
The skills acquired through the study of Music can be used as a basis for further study or for leisure time. Many of the skills sought by employers are the ones developed in Music, and are easily transferable to many walks of life.
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