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Building on a tradition of musical excellence, Music is dynamic department which encourages students to explore their creative potential through the study of performance, composition, listening and a wide range of musical eras and styles. 

Our broad curriculum and extensive enrichment programme aims to challenge students of all abilities in order to nurture students’ talents through a robust musical education and engaging musical experiences.

Staff

Mrs Hannah Wallis-Windle
Director of Music
h.wallis@minster.notts.sch.uk
Ms Marie-Helene Bilodeau
Assistant Curriculum Team Leader for Music
m.bilodeau@minster.notts.sch.uk

Curriculum

You can download a copy of the Geography Learning Journey for the Minster school below.

KS3

In Year 7, 8 and 9 students attend 2 lessons of Music per fortnight. These lessons take a practical approach to the study of Music, exploring vocal, instrumental, performance, listening and composition skills through topics including Band Skills, Film Music, Form & Structure, Blues and Songwriting

KS4

At GCSE level, students attend 4-5 lessons per fortnight and study the Edexcel specification for GCSE Music. In KS4 we offer both GCSE Music and NCFE Music Technology.

GCSE Music

Board/Specification

Edexcel

Assessed Components

Students prepare a solo and an ensemble performance on their instrument(s) including voice.  Students perform for a combined total time of four minutes Performing 30% 
Students compose two pieces of music. One is a free composition, the other is to an exam board brief.  Both compositions must total a minimum of three minutes. Composing 30%
Students sit a listening exam based on the study of eight set works from a broad range of musical styles. Included in the exam is an extended written response. Appraising 40
NCFE Level 2 Technical Award in Music Technology

Board/Specification

NCFE

Content

Students learn how to use Logic Pro X and recording equipment in order to create, record edit, manipulate and produce sound. Studied units cover ‘Using a Digital Audio Workstation’, ‘Creating Music’, ‘Studio Recording’, Sound Creation’

Assessed Components

Students provide a portfolio of their work compiled from the units above Portfolio 50%
Students complete an external written exam which includes a listening task assessing underpinning knowledge and skills drawn from the units above Written Exam 15%
Students apply the practical skills of music production learnt in the units above through an external music production exam Practical Exam 35%