We have a fantastic reputation for the quality of our teaching, and the standard of our extra-curricular ensembles. Our department is inclusive, challenging and engaging.Music
The Music Department at Beaumont School offers a wide range of opportunities for all students to enjoy music-making, both in and out of the classroom.
To view the current Music Department Development Plan, click here.
At Key Stage 3, students explore the interrelated skills of performance, composition and listening by studying a diverse range of musical styles and traditions. Students are taught the fundamentals of music theory and emphasis is placed on the use of these theoretical concepts in practical music-making, with frequent opportunities for students to compose and perform. Music Technology plays in important role in our Key Stage 3 curriculum with students learning how to use a variety of programs. Over three years, students form an appreciation of music in all its many forms. The Music Department assesses students’ work in a variety of ways: regular feedback is provided to groups and individuals on their work-in-progress during performance and composition tasks; completed compositions and end-of-topic performances in class are formally assessed; students complete mini-quizzes during lessons, and home-learning provides students and staff with immediate feedback. In Years 10 and 11, students follow the OCR GCSE Specification for GCSE Music. We believe the OCR syllabus offers students the opportunity to perform and compose in styles that interest them, as well as exposing them to a vast range of musical traditions. It is a demanding yet engaging course that develops the whole musician, and fosters a lifelong love and appreciation of music. The course is 60% coursework, comprising two performances and two compositions across the two years of study. The remaining 40% is a listening exam that covers the Areas of Study taught throughout the course. In the Sixth Form, students follow the OCR specification for A-Level Music. The OCR syllabus is a demanding and rewarding course that covers a wide range of music, through the study of a variety of works. Students engage with external factors that affect the production and consumption of music, developing knowledge and understanding historical and social factors surrounding great musical compositions. They perform and compose in styles that suit their individual musical identities. The course is divided into three parts; performing, composing and appraising. Students perform on instruments, compose pieces, and study music from a wide range of styles and periods. 60% of the A Level mark is based on practical music-making (performing and composing) and 40% is based on an exam taken in the summer of Year 13. As well as rigorous academic study of a variety of pieces, much of the course is practical. Students can expect to play an instrument or sing in many lessons. Much work will be independent; learning about music through performance, listening and reading. Students will work in collaboration with teachers, classmates and other musicians in order to develop an in-depth understanding in the subject. The A Level qualification requires a range of different skills; creativity, an eye for detail, and the ability to understand how music relates to other disciplines, such as history or social studies. As well at least a grade ‘6’ at GCSE Music, students need to be able to perform at approximately Grade 5 level (or equivalent, depending on their instrument). Music is often paired with Maths, Languages or English. As a performing arts subject it complements a qualification in Drama, yet many musicians with a more logical, methodical approach will pair it with a Science. The course is 60% coursework, comprising a performance recital and two composition tasks completed across the two years of study. The remaining 40% is a listening exam that covers the musical styles taught throughout the course. The extracurricular programme at Beaumont School is enormous, with an enviable range of ensembles on offer, including choirs, bands, orchestras and chamber groups. There are opportunities for every child to get involved in our department, regardless of experience and prior ability. We perform in numerous concerts throughout the year, both in school and in the local community. We have collaborated with local and national choirs and ensembles, and work with professionals in the music industry. One to one instrumental tuition is available on many instruments, with tuition provided by a team of outstanding peripatetic teachers.
In lessons, students are encouraged to extend their composition and performance skills. Our extracurricular enrichment provides a range of opportunities to develop our musicians, and our auditioned ensembles further stretch our more advanced instrumentalists and singers. Older students often lead ensembles and assist with the running of the department through our Music Captains programme. We run a number of trips for students, to concerts, talks and other performances. We have a strong tradition of sending students to sing and play in local and national ensembles, such as the National Youth Choir, National Youth Concert Band and the English Schools’ Orchestra. Universities value an A Level in Music across degree courses; the qualification demonstrated that a student can handle open-ended, creative work as well as academic analysis, and has a disciplined approach to their studies. Musicians are found in all industries and follow a wide range of career paths. Above all, a love of music is important for those wishing to study the subject. Music is a life-long passion and the ability to sing or play is an invaluable skill that many desire, but too few possess. Former students have read Music at a range of universities – including Oxford and Cambridge – and careers for Music graduates are wide-ranging. Many industries value creativity, independent learning skills and a collaborative approach; highly-regarded skills which are typically possessed by musicians. You could find work as a musician, or move into education or Arts administration. No career is inaccessible for Music graduates. Encourage your child to make the most of the many extra-curricular music clubs on offer. If your child attends 1:1 music lessons, please help them organise attendance at lessons, instrument care and, of course, practice. Listen to a variety of musical styles with your child. Beaumont Music YouTube page: www.youtube.com/@MusicBeaumont Beaumont Music Twitter/X feed: https://x.com/BeaumontMusicKey Stage 3
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Key Stage 4
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Key Stage 5
How is the course divided?
What would an A Level lesson look like?
What makes a good musician?
What subjects complement Music?
Assessment
Extra-curricular enrichment
Stretch & Challenge
Where can Music take you?
How can parents support their child’s learning?
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