Music is seen as an integral part of the curriculum at Downsend.
Learning to play and appreciate music can encourage participation, teamwork, and a sense of group identity as well as increasing creativity. It develops the children’s ability to understand themselves and relate to others, thus promoting self-confidence and social skills. It can also support learning in other subject areas, such as the ability to listen and concentrate and the facility for self-expression.
Curriculum
All pupils are taught to sing, to play tuned and un-tuned percussion and the basics of music theory in class. In the Upper School, we focus on keyboard skills and study a number of genres in depth through performing, listening and composing.
Enrichment
Downsend has a dedicated team of peripatetic music staff offering tuition on various instruments including: flute, saxophone, clarinet, oboe, recorder, violin, viola, trumpet, trombone, piano, guitar, cello, drum kit, percussion and singing.
Children with outstanding musical talent have the opportunity to apply for a Music Scholarship.
And all children are encouraged to join one of our ensembles including:
- Upper School Rock Bands
- Brass Band
- Whole School Orchestra
- Upper School Choir,
- Chamber Choir
- Samba Band.
Head of Music – Nicole Allison
