Music

Keeping music alive 

In order to bring out the musical creativity which every person to a greater or lesser extent possesses, the Music Department emphasises the importance of the practical nature of music whilst, at the same time, encouraging the interconnection of the literary and theoretical skills necessary to improve the reading of music scores.

Composing and performing in small groups during lessons is designed to give each student a voice or responsibility; achievement and enjoyment incorporate music-making; and helps to facilitate confidence not only in performing with bands and orchestras but also in any team-building exercises outside the framework of music.

Which specification is followed? 

At KS3, pupils study the development of musical characteristics from other countries as well as those from the British Isles.  The compositional devices used in each genre are studied and applied in performing and composing exercises.  Recordings of the musical creations are recorded for the purpose of appraisal in class divisions.

The GCSE course specification consists of listening and appraising music, composing and performing.  The AS and A2 course specifications are the same at a higher level with the added in-depth study of two movements from a full symphony. 

Individual instrument tuition

 A very important input into the Music Department is that of the visiting instrumental teachers, nine in all, who give lessons in all orchestral instruments: guitar, piano, keyboard, piano accordion and percussion.  Every tutor is a well qualified professional performer as well as teacher.   Pupils are encouraged to enter for external music examinations in performing and theory. At Bradford Girls' Grammar School, we use the Associated  Board of the Royal School of Music Examinations board; an institution where standards are generally favoured above other examination boards by universities and colleges.  We enjoyed a 100% pass rate in summer 2010. 

Small classes in aural training and theory in every grade are available for additional help.  We are especially proud of our large collection of percussion instruments, which include a full set of steel pans and steel drums, and of our purpose-built recording studio.

Ensembles

These include senior and junior orchestras, two steel band groups, guitar ensemble, senior choir, flute group, soul band and jazz group.

Degree and career choices

Apart from the obvious choices in performing, teaching or general musicianship courses, other associated studies include music and therapy and music as a component of any general arts programme.