EYFS

Throughout the year children will focus on the three following areas: beat and tempo, finding the singing voice, and using instruments to accompany music.

Year 1

In year 1 all children take part in the Brent Music ‘Music’s Cool’ Violin programme. This is a fantastic opportunity for all children to play an instrument over the course of the year. The children will learn how to hold a bow properly, pluck and bow open strings, copy and repeat rhythmic phrases, sing a variety of songs and finally perform in a concert during the summer term.

Year 2

In year 2 children are introduced to simple music notation. They begin to notice the difference between pulse and rhythm and explore how to control pitch in their voice when singing. They are introduced to the recorder, learning 3 note tunes and they also explore different musical elements such as loud/quiet, fast/slow and apply them to a musical performance.

Year 3

In year 3 every child receives their own recorder and learns to both play and compose tunes. Children will perform 3-5 note tunes from memory and be able to play in time with a group. They will also be aware of rhythmic notation using crotchets and quavers. The children explore instruments from the orchestra and listen to a wide range of orchestral pieces.

Year 4

In year 4 children build confidence in themselves as music makers by singing and playing the ukulele and other classroom instruments. They build a repertoire of songs and rhythms to develop their musicality and performance skills in solo and ensemble contexts whilst exploring the history of popular music focusing on The Beatles.

Year 5

In year 5 children explore, refine and perform more complicated musical ideas. They develop ensemble skills by exploring a variety of musical styles such as Samba, African drumming and Ancient Greek music. They also explore alternative forms of notation such as graphic scores and work towards a full ensemble performance at the end of the year.

Year 6

In year 6 children explore how to make music using body percussion, beat boxing and a percussive style called Bamboo Tamboo from Trinidad and Tobago. Children also learn how to compose their own music using music technology software. Through cross-curricular topics, Year 6 compose musical ideas to reflect scenes from WWII and learn how to compose music for film.  Children are encouraged to express and communicate their own ideas and feelings through music and lead groups in a performance of their own composition.