Music

'I would teach children music, physics and philosophy but most importantly music, for the patterns in music and all the arts are the keys to learning'  Plato

Music at Sacred Heart aims to develop students’ practical and listening skills; as well as improve their understanding of music. The department also offers many extracurricular musical opportunities and students are encouraged to take part in regular performances - including liturgical worship, music recitals, the annual music competitions, battle of the bands and whole school musical all of which take place throughout the year.

Key Stage 3

In KS3, students explore variety of music genres and learn to analyse and appraise music using music specific vocabulary. They compose and perform music from different cultures, genres and musical traditions; learning how to develop their compositions to create stylish and idiomatic pieces. Musical genres studied include:

• Musical Elements
• Development of the orchestra
• The Baroque and Classical works
• World music
• Programme Music
• Film Music
• Minimalism

You can read more about our Key Stage curriculum here: Key Stage 3 Curriculum Music

Key Stage 4 (GCSE)

In KS4, students extend the skills already acquired; and explore more intricate musical concepts. There are three main components as follows: 

Performance -  Students perform solos and ensembles.

Composition -Students submit two compositions.

Listening and appraising/understanding -   A written exam, where students are asked to listen and respond to questions about set works and unprepared pieces.

Extra-Curricular

Sacred Heart’s extra-curricular music activities aims to enrich the lives of the students and enhance the religious and cultural life of the school. Extra-curricular opportunities include:

• Junior Choir -  for Years 7 and 8 students
• Senior choir – for students in Year 9 - 13
• Chamber choir – for more advanced musicians and singers
• Orchestra -  for all orchestral instrumentalists (all grades welcome)
• Rock bands  -  set up by the students with staff guidance and support
• Folk instrumental clubs - set up by the students with staff guidance and support
• Theory Club -  open to all students. ABRSM exams can be taken in the Spring term at school

Key Stage 5 (A-Level Music)

You can read more about Music A-Level on our Sixth Form pages, here:  here. 

Alumnae

Sacred Heart Music alumnae have in previous years moved on to study music at the Royal College of Music, Guildhall School of music and other leading universities. Others have pursued careers in music as either teachers or performers. For those who do not opt to continue their music studies often enrol in musical activities such as choirs and orchestra at their chosen university with music remaining an important part of their lives.