School Life
Discover academic excellence, personal development, and a vibrant community at Ernest Bevin Academy.
Music
The Music curriculum at Ernest Bevin Academy is designed to inspire a lifelong love of music while developing students' skills in performing, composing, and critical listening. We believe that music is a powerful form of expression that develops creativity, builds confidence, and enhances cognitive skills across the curriculum.
Our inclusive approach ensures that all students, regardless of their prior musical experience, can engage with and enjoy music, while providing pathways for those who wish to pursue music at a higher level.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9)
Year 7
Autumn Term
- Elements of Music: Rhythm, pitch, dynamics, tempo, texture, timbre, structure
- Keyboard Skills: Basic technique and note reading
- Singing: Developing vocal technique through group singing
Spring Term
- African Drumming: Rhythmic patterns and ensemble playing
- Pentatonic Melodies: Composition using five-note scales
- Introduction to Music Technology: Using software to create music
Summer Term
- Programme Music: How music tells stories
- Ukulele Skills: Chords and strumming patterns
- Class Performance Project: Preparing for end-of-year showcase
Year 8
Autumn Term
- Blues Music: Historical context, 12-bar blues structure
- Improvisation: Creating melodies using the blues scale
- Band Skills: Playing as an ensemble
Spring Term
- Film Music: Techniques used in soundtracks
- Composition: Creating music to accompany scenes
- Advanced Keyboard Skills: Chord progressions
Summer Term
- World Music: Exploring musical traditions from different cultures
- Fusion: Combining elements from different musical styles
- Digital Composition: Creating music using DAW software
Year 9
Autumn Term
- Popular Music Analysis: Structure, instrumentation, production techniques
- Song Writing: Crafting lyrics and melodies
- Performance Skills: Interpretation and expression
Spring Term
- Classical Music Traditions: Key periods and composers
- Music Theory: Notation, key signatures, time signatures
- Critical Listening: Analyzing texture, harmony, and form
Summer Term
- Music Production: Recording techniques and mixing
- GCSE Preparation: Introduction to set works
- Independent Project: Student-led composition or arrangement
Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11)
At Key Stage 4, students follow the Edexcel GCSE Music specification. This course builds on the skills developed at Key Stage 3 and allows students to explore music in greater depth through performing, composing, and appraising.
Course Content
- Component 1: Performing (30% of GCSE) - Students prepare solo and ensemble performances, totaling at least 4 minutes of music
- Component 2: Composing (30% of GCSE) - Students create two compositions, one to a brief set by Edexcel and one free composition
- Component 3: Appraising (40% of GCSE) - Students study eight set works across four areas of study, developing critical listening and analytical skills
Areas of Study
Area of Study 1: Instrumental Music 1700-1820
- J.S. Bach: 3rd Movement from Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in D major
- L. van Beethoven: 1st Movement from Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor 'Pathétique'
Area of Study 2: Vocal Music
- H. Purcell: 'Music for a While'
- Queen: 'Killer Queen' (from the album 'Sheer Heart Attack')
Area of Study 3: Music for Stage and Screen
- S. Schwartz: 'Defying Gravity' (from the musical 'Wicked')
- J. Williams: Main title/rebel blockade runner (from the soundtrack to 'Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope')
Area of Study 4: Fusions
- Afro Celt Sound System: 'Release' (from the album 'Volume 2: Release')
- Esperanza Spalding: 'Samba Em Preludio' (from the album 'Esperanza')
Key Stage 5 (Sixth Form)
In the Sixth Form, students can choose to study A-Level Music. We follow the Edexcel specification, which provides a broad and challenging curriculum that prepares students for higher education in music.
Course Components
- Component 1: Performing (30% of A-Level) - A public performance of one or more pieces, performed as a recital, lasting at least 8 minutes
- Component 2: Composing (30% of A-Level) - Total of two compositions, one to a brief and one either free composition or to a brief
- Component 3: Appraising (40% of A-Level) - Knowledge and understanding of musical elements, contexts and language across six areas of study, each with three set works
Areas of Study for A-Level
- Vocal Music
- Instrumental Music
- Music for Film
- Popular Music and Jazz
- Fusions
- New Directions
Music Technology
For students particularly interested in the production and technology side of music, we also offer BTEC Level 3 Music Technology in the Sixth Form. This qualification focuses on recording, production, and sound engineering skills, providing an alternative pathway for students interested in the technical aspects of music production.
The course covers areas such as:
- Studio recording techniques
- Music sequencing and production
- Sound for media (film, TV, games)
- Live sound reinforcement
- Music business and marketing
- DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) skills
Facilities and Resources
The Music department at Ernest Bevin Academy is well-equipped with specialist facilities to support our curriculum:
- Main music classroom with keyboards, digital pianos, and interactive whiteboard
- Recording studio with professional equipment
- Mac suite with Logic Pro X and Sibelius notation software
- Practice rooms for individual and small group rehearsals
- Large percussion collection including African djembes and samba kit
- Class sets of ukuleles, guitars, and keyboards
- Band equipment including drum kits, electric guitars, bass guitars, and amplifiers
- Orchestral instruments available for loan to students
Extra-Curricular Opportunities
We offer a wide range of extra-curricular activities to enrich our students' musical experiences:
- School choir
- Orchestra
- Jazz band
- Rock and pop bands
- Samba band
- Music technology club
- Composition club
- Theory club for ABRSM examinations
- Seasonal concerts and performances
- Music festival in the summer term
- Trips to concerts and musical performances
- Workshops with visiting musicians and composers
Instrumental and Vocal Tuition
In partnership with Wandsworth Music Service, we offer individual and small group instrumental and vocal tuition in a variety of instruments:
Strings
- Violin
- Viola
- Cello
- Double Bass
- Classical Guitar
Woodwind & Brass
- Flute
- Clarinet
- Saxophone
- Trumpet
- Trombone
Other
- Piano/Keyboard
- Drums/Percussion
- Electric/Bass Guitar
- Voice
- Music Production
Please contact the Music department for information about lesson fees and instrument hire options. Financial assistance is available for eligible students.
How Parents Can Help
- Encourage regular practice at home
- Attend school concerts and performances
- Consider instrumental or vocal lessons
- Expose students to a wide variety of musical styles
- Visit concerts, musicals, and other live music events
- Discuss music heard in everyday life (TV, radio, online)
- Support participation in extra-curricular music activities
- Consider joining local youth orchestras or choirs
Useful Resources
Websites
Additional Resources
- GCSE Music Revision Guide (Download PDF)
- Set Works Analysis Booklet (Download PDF)
- Instrumental Lesson Information (Download PDF)
- Music Theory Worksheets (Download PDF)
- Practice Record Sheet (Download PDF)