In the classroom all students gain practical skills in keyboard, guitar, singing, drum kit and general percussion and experience using their skills by taking part in whole class workshops, small groups, paired and individual work.
Students have the opportunity to develop their music technology skills using music software. (Logic and Sibelius) Use of the Macs is an integrated part of the curriculum at both Key Stages 3 and 4.
All students study a diverse range of musical styles including popular, traditional, and world music and many students continue learning beyond the classroom on a whole range of instruments, extending their learning through performing with others in many of the school instrumental and vocal ensembles.
Music is a popular choice at GCSE level with many students choosing to further develop their performing and composing skills and to explore in more depth topics including ‘Popular Music’, The ‘Concerto through Time’, World music (Central and South America, India, Africa, Eastern Mediterranean, Middle East) and ‘Film Music’.
The Music department collaborates with the Art and Drama departments resulting in a wide variety of Creative Arts opportunities and experiences which are available to every student during their time at St Sampson’s High School.
The Music Department runs a variety of different extra-curricular activities each year. These happen at lunchtimes and some after school sessions.
We respond to the requests and interests of students and try to offer every student an opportunity to be involved.