Music

The department is accommodated in its own separate suite of rooms consisting of two music classrooms, both of which are equipped with keyboards, computers, monitoring system and sound system besides the usual classroom furniture. We also have a recording studio and part-time studio technician, two small practice rooms and a store room.

The department is staffed by Mr G Hilliard (Head of Department) and assisted by two other members of staff. In addition, we have visiting instrumental teachers who teach a variety of instruments, including drum kit, clarinet, flute and saxophone, violin, keyboard/piano and guitar. They help and support individual students learning an instrument. Some of these students may go on to take exams in their chosen instrument.

The department works closely with the Drama Department, particularly in supporting and delivering the musical elements of the A level and BTEC Performing Arts courses. We currently run a Music GCSE and BTEC music course, the details of which are below. The department is one of a total of 4 departments which form the school’s Performing Arts Faculty, led by Mrs Julie Bishop.

Extra-curricular: amongst other things we run a singing club/choir and recently took 60 students to the O2 Arena to sing in a mass choir event called "Voice in a million".

Music BTEC First Certificate - Edexcel Exam Board

Course overview
This course provides students with specialist knowledge of the music industry including sound engineering, recording, using computers in music, planning for live events, creating CDs, rehearsing and performing techniques, understanding music and the development of general musical skills.

How is the course assessed?
Continual assessment in the form of a portfolio of evidence covering three units of work, with no examination. The BTEC First Certificate is equivalent to 2 GCSEs at grades A*-C. Some students may be able to achieve the necessary standards in three further units of work to pass the BTEC First Diploma in Music, equivalent to 4 GCSEs at grades A*-C. 

What could this course lead to?
A BTEC First Certificate or Diploma in Music helps prepare students for employment in the music and performing arts industries, and can also prepare for the study of A Level Music Technology. 

Contact

Head of Department - Mr G Hilliard - HilliardG@eastbrook.bardaglea.org.uk