A lot of value is put on Music in CHS South. The school put a lot of emphasis on The Arts; something that I think is really special in a curriculum for many reasons. Students who have access to a high-quality Music education often tend to be at an advantage in other subjects, such as Maths, Science and English. Music poses as a means of encouraging critical thinking, memory retention and overall happiness and wellbeing. We aim for Music at CHS South to be somewhere you can be Creative by performing and composing, Happy through enjoyment of playing and Successful by grasping the importance Music plays in the world around us.
We have encouraged our students to play music in their own home. Here is one of our students playing the drums on household objects.
Use the video below to play along yourself!
Our subject intends to inspire, provide motivation and nurture passion for all students to help them develop their musicianship and transferrable skills further. Studying music shows a real drive and determination to improve ourselves, not only as musicians but also humans. It has been scientifically proven that playing an instrument or singing releases endorphins which promotes wellbeing and we harness this as a department to support students on their creative, happy and successful journey through school.
Students are expected to take music lessons if they opt for GCSE, whether in school or outside, as performance makes up 30% of the final grade. They learn appraisal skills in relation to set study pieces and there are many opportunities to compose as well as develop skills as a performer.
Students opting for Music Technology need to have a basic understanding of composing using a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). Music Technology students learn about knowledge of the music industry, how to produce and promote a musical product, they get a hands on knowledge of recording and working within a studio and also learn how to compose music.
Studying music enables students to develop highly desirable skills in areas such as self-management, creativity, data analysis, performance, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication, all of which makes them an attractive prospect for potential employers. There are numerous careers that anyone studying Music or Music Technology could go into, such as session musician, sound engineer, tour manager, musical director, music or instrumental teacher or a job at a studio or record label.
