Our foundation classess, Cherry and Apple have spent a lot of time exploring instruments and the different sounds they make. We have used instruments such as a rain stick and a very big drum. We have explored how to make loud sounds and quiet sounds and how to play an instrument gently.

In Primary, Oak and Elm classes, have been learning about the music of ABBA. The main focus has been the song Mamma Mia, which they have sung, accompanied on glockenspiels and recorders, and composed their own riff to play along with it.

Willow class have been learning how to play the ocarina, a small wind instrument which you blow into and move your fingers over the four holes to change the pitch. The class found it quite challenging at first, but they have persevered and can now play five notes and perform more than six songs together.

The focus for Pine class has been rap music and learning how to use our voices to sing and rap. They have also learnt how to add an accompaniment to a song, listening to each other to ensure a good class performance.

It’s been great fun teaching the ukulele to Beech class. Learning a new instrument is never easy, and with the ukulele there is so much to think about! Holding it, chord shapes, changing chords, strumming and strumming patterns. We’ve had great fun and the class are really getting the hang of it, performing some great songs together.

Earth class have spent this term discovering the music of the Beatles. They have focused on the song Blackbird, learning to sing the song, accompany it and compose their own riffs. They have also done some research about who the Beatles were and why they are so important to the development of music in the UK.

This term, we have started our Key Stage 4 music qualification. This year is all about learning about the rehearsal process and how to plan for a performance. We have made a great start and I look forward to hearing them perform at Christmas time.