Overview

Music is a practical and expressive subject that builds on pupils’ previous experiences. The course aims to ignite curiosity and a passion for music, developing imagination, creativity, skills, and knowledge. Lessons also support the growth of self-esteem and self-discipline, helping pupils achieve higher standards across the curriculum.

All pupils have access to a rich and varied programme of extracurricular activities, both within school and in the wider community. Music at King Ecgbert School emphasises active learning, enjoyment, collaboration, and self-expression, while remaining fully inclusive for all pupils.

Key Stage 3

The curriculum is supported by a wide range of extra-curricular activities at lunchtime and after school, as well as individual lessons from visiting peripatetic staff in strings, brass, woodwind, percussion, piano, vocals, electric and acoustic guitar, bass guitar, drum kit, and electric keyboard.

Year 7

Year 7 covers performing and composing on keyboard, rhythm work, hooks and riffs, graphic scores, ukulele, programme music, and instruments of the orchestra.

Year 8

Year 8 covers Jazz and Blues, chord structures, music of the 1950s and 1960s, The Beatles, Reggae, and variations.

Year 9

Year 9 covers film music, musicals, minimalist music, Samba, and analysis of what makes a good song.

Years 10 & 11

The course has three components:

  1. Understanding Music – 40%

  2. Performing Music – 30%

  3. Composing Music – 30%

Students engage critically and creatively with a wide range of music, using music technology, performing, composing, listening, and understanding musical elements, context, and language. The course is structured around four areas of study:

  • Western Classical Tradition 1650–1910

  • Popular Music

  • Traditional Music

  • Western Classical Tradition since 1910

Understanding music (listening and appraising)

The exam lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and is divided into two sections: Section A (listening) and Section B (contextual understanding).

Performing music

Students perform twice, once as a soloist and once as part of an ensemble, with a combined minimum of four minutes, including at least one minute of ensemble performance.

Composing music

Students compose two pieces: one in response to an exam board brief and one free composition, lasting a minimum of three minutes combined.

Exam board

AQA

Specification