Intent
At Redwell Primary School the intention is that children gain a firm understanding of what music is through listening, singing, playing, evaluating, analysing, and composing across a wide variety of historical periods, styles, traditions, and musical genres. Our objective at Redwell Primary School is to develop a curiosity for the subject, as well as an understanding and acceptance of the validity and importance of all types of music, and an unbiased respect for the role that music may wish to be expressed in any person’s life. We are committed to ensuring children understand the value and importance of music in the wider community, and are able to use their musical skills, knowledge, and experiences to involve themselves in music, in a variety of different contexts.
Implementation
Our Charanga Music School schemes provide teachers with week-by-week lessons for each year group in their school. Our music curriculum ensures pupils sing, listen, play, perform and evaluate. This is entrenched in the classroom activities as well as the weekly singing assembly. The elements of music are taught in the classroom lessons so that the children are able to use some of the language of music to examine it and understand how it is made, played, appreciated and analysed. In the classroom pupils have the opportunity to play a number of percussion instruments. They look into the different principle of each method of creating notes, as well as how to read basic music notation. They will learn how to compose concentrating on different elements of music, which in turn will feed into their understanding when listening, playing, or analysing music. Composing or performing using body percussion and vocal sounds is also part of the curriculum, which increases their understanding of musical elements without the added difficulty of an instrument.
Impact
Whilst in school, the children have access to areas which include, pulse, pitch, rhythm, voice, technology structure, form and 20th Century Music. This allows the pupils to determine areas of strength and areas where they could improve upon. Music will help develop an understanding of culture and history, both in relation to pupils individually, as well as ethnicities from across the world. The pupils will be able to enjoy music in as
many ways as they chose for example, as a listener, a creator or a performer; scrutinize music and understand all of its parts; sing and feel a pulse. They will build up an understanding of how to further increase skills less known to them, should they ever want to develop an interest in their lives.
How are the British Values developed in Music?
At Redwell Primary, we have chosen to teach our music curriculum using the Charanga music scheme. Charanga is widely used in primary schools across the country and supports the promotion of British Values through its inclusive and holistic approach to music education. British Values, as defined by the UK government, include Democracy, Rule of Law, Individual Liberty, Mutual Respect, and Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs. Here's how the Charanga scheme links to these values:
1. Democracy
- Collaborative Learning: Charanga often involves group activities where students work together to compose, perform, and critique music. This encourages children to share ideas, take turns, and listen to one another.
- Choice and Voice: Students are encouraged to express their preferences in music selection and participate in discussions, promoting the democratic principle of valuing each individual’s opinion.
2. Rule of Law
- Structure and Guidelines: Charanga lessons often have clear rules for participation, such as respecting instruments, following a conductor, or adhering to the rhythm of a piece. This mirrors the importance of understanding and respecting rules in society.
- Accountability: Students learn to take responsibility for their role in group performances, fostering a sense of fairness and justice.
3. Individual Liberty
- Creative Expression: The scheme encourages self-expression through composing and improvising music. Students are given the freedom to explore their musical interests within a safe and supportive framework.
- Building Confidence: By providing opportunities to perform, students develop self-esteem and learn to express themselves confidently.
4. Mutual Respect
- Teamwork: Music-making inherently involves collaboration and respect for the contributions of others. Whether performing in ensembles or evaluating each other’s work, students learn to value the efforts and perspectives of their peers.
- Active Listening: Charanga emphasises listening skills, fostering respect for the contributions of others and appreciation for different musical styles.
5. Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs
- Diverse Repertoire: Charanga includes music from various cultures, traditions, and genres, helping students develop an understanding and appreciation of the rich diversity in music and its cultural contexts.
- Celebrating Differences: By exploring music from different faiths and cultural backgrounds, students learn to respect and value diversity in their community and beyond.
Overall Integration
Charanga's engaging and inclusive approach to music education naturally aligns with the ethos of British Values. It fosters a sense of community, respect, and inclusivity while providing students with the tools to explore their individuality and contribute positively to group activities. This ensures that children not only develop musical skills but also grow into well-rounded individuals who appreciate the values underpinning a cohesive and respectful society.
Progression Documents