Morpeth Music Department
Music is the beating heart of Morpeth School, infusing life and rhythm into every moment of the day. From the moment students enter the school gates, they are welcomed into a world of sound and creativity, where every voice is encouraged and every talent nurtured. The Music Department is a vibrant hub of activity, with a dazzling array of musical projects and ensembles to inspire and excite every student. With a dedicated team of specialist music staff, the department is buzzing with energy and passion, dedicated to unleashing the musical potential of every student and fostering a love of music that will last a lifetime.
About Morpeth Music
Get ready to tune into the electrifying rhythm of Morpeth School's Music Department, where music is more than just a subject - it's a way of life! Our school is alive with the sound of music, and every student is encouraged to be a part of the action, with top-notch facilities and expert music staff to guide them every step of the way. Whether you're into concert bands, rock bands, choirs, or small chamber ensembles, we've got it all, and we're not afraid to use it!Our music department is packed with cutting-edge gear, including 2 state-of-the-art ICT suites, a large recording studio with a separate control booth, and additional smaller recording rooms, not to mention countless practice rooms, classrooms with breakout spaces, and a massive performance theatre that'll blow your mind!We offer instrumental tuition, numerous bands, choirs, and ICT programmes to join, plus additional support for courses. And that's just the beginning! We've got a ton of extra-curricular experiences for you to explore, including overseas trips, seminars, and masterclasses that'll take your musical skills to the next level.
The Team
| Name | Role |
|---|---|
| Mr M. Keil | Head of Music |
| Mr L. Perry | Deputy Head of Music |
| Mr J. Crockford | Music Specialist/House Lead |
| Ms B. Baranova | Music Technician |
| Ms K. Cherrett | Vocal Coach |
| Mr S. Henry | Piano/Woodwind Teacher |
| Mr N. Robinson | Guitar/Bass Teacher |
| Mr R. McDouall | Drum Teacher |
| Mr S. Warner | Trumpet Teacher |
| Mr J. Bennett | Trombone Teacher |
| Mr J. Bescoby | Oboe Teacher |
Curriculum
EVERY CHILD IS A MUSICIAN
At Morpeth, we believe every child should have the opportunity to become a musician, experiencing the many benefits the subject provides. Music links to other curriculum areas, including Maths, History, Languages, Geography, Science and much more. Music is uniquely placed to provide skills in musicianship and support for broader curriculum study and to support the development of critical personal attributes such as confidence, communication, teamwork and self-reflection.From their first music lesson, regardless of prior experience, every child at Morpeth becomes a musician. Every child will experience playing a variety of musical instruments, both in solo and ensemble contexts. Every child will have the opportunity to discover a wide range of genres. Every child will learn how to read music. Every child will experience high-quality teaching and learning to enable them to pursue further study at Key Stage 4 if they wish to.
Rock School
Qualification: RSL Level 2 Certificate for Music Practitioners (Performing)
Course Length: 1 Year
Available for: Year 9-11
Rock School is a KS4 course available to all students. The year-long course gives students the opportunity to form a band and rehearse during their 4.5 hours of lesson time per week. Each band will put together a setlist of several cover songs which culminates in an end-of-year performance to families. During this time, bands will have the opportunity to record one of their tracks and film a music video.As well as developing performance skills, all students will complete a Musical Knowledge unit, which explores a variety of musical genres and allows them to investigate areas of music that they are interested in.
Music Technology
Qualification: RSL Level 2 Certificate for Music Practitioners (Technology)
Course Length: 1 Year
Available for: Year 9-11
Music Technology is a level 2 course designed to build on the students’ experiences in KS3 of creating music using DAW software. Students will learn how to create music using MIDI and Audio, edit their tracks, and use professional mixing and mastering techniques to achieve a professional sound. Students will have access to our Mac suites with Logic Pro, as well as our three recording studios equipped with high-quality hardware and software.As well as developing production skills, all students will complete a Musical Knowledge unit, which explores a variety of musical genres and allows them to investigate areas of music that they are interested in.
GCSE Music
Course Length: 1 Year
Available for: Year 10-11
Entry Requirements: Grade 3 or above on an instrument and/or Rock School Level 2
GCSE Music provides students with the opportunity to focus on three key areas of musicianship: Composition, Performance, and Theory/Analysis.COMPOSITION
During the year students will write two pieces of music: a composition to a set brief, and a free choice composition. Each composition is worth 15% of the total GCSE.PERFORMANCE
Students will perform a minimum of two pieces for their composition. A solo performance piece (which can have piano accompaniment or a backing track) and an ensemble performance with other musicians. Each performance is worth 15% of the total GCSE.EXAM
At the end of the year, students will complete a 90-minute exam paper covering four areas of study:
The Concerto Through Time
Rhythms of the World
Film Music
Conventions of Pop
Level 3 Music (Certificate)
Course Length: 1 Year
Available for: Year 11
Entry Requirements: GCSE Music at Grade 6 or above
GCSE Music provides students with the opportunity to focus on three key areas of musicianship: Composition, Performance, and Theory/Analysis.COMPOSITION
During the year students will write two pieces of music: a composition to a set brief, and a free choice composition. Each composition is worth 15% of the total GCSE.PERFORMANCE
Students will perform a minimum of two pieces for their composition. A solo performance piece (which can have piano accompaniment or a backing track) and an ensemble performance with other musicians. Each performance is worth 15% of the total GCSE.EXAM
At the end of the year, students will complete a 90-minute exam paper covering four areas of study:
The Concerto Through Time
Rhythms of the World
Film Music
Conventions of Pop
Level 3 Music (Subsidiary Diploma)
Course Length: 2 Years
Available for: Year 12-13
Entry Requirements: GCSE Music at Grade 6 or above
The RSL Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma for Music Practitioners is a two-year vocational music course, equivalent in size to 1.5 A Levels. It is designed for students who want to develop a broad range of practical, creative and professional skills while exploring different areas of the music industry.Throughout the course, students complete five units, covering performance, music production, live sound, career development and musical research. Three units are studied in Year 12, followed by two in Year 13.Year 12Unit 387E – Rehearsal Skills and Live Music Performance
Students develop their skills as performers, learning how to rehearse effectively both independently and as part of an ensemble, before preparing for live performance.
Unit 349 – Planning for a Career in Music
Students explore the range of opportunities available within the music industry and consider the skills, experience and pathways needed to develop their own future career.
Unit 366 – Music Sequencing and Production
Students develop their music technology skills, using sequencing and production techniques to create and develop music using industry-standard software.Year 13Unit 335 – Sound Reinforcement
Students explore the practical skills involved in live sound, including the equipment and techniques used to set up, manage and operate sound for live performances.
Unit 320 – Music Dissertation
Students undertake an extended piece of independent research into an area of music that interests them, developing their research, analytical and written communication skills.The course offers students the opportunity to develop as musicians, producers and music practitioners, while also building transferable skills including collaboration, organisation, independent working, problem-solving and communication. It provides a strong foundation for students wishing to continue into higher education, employment or further training within music and the wider creative industries.
Clubs
Concert Band
Led by Mr Keil and supported by Mr Robinson, Mr Perry, Mr Crockford, Mr Henry, Mr Bennett and Mr Warner, open to all students with a minimum of grade 2 on their instrument.Step into the vibrant world of the Concert Band Club, a dynamic extra-curricular ensemble that celebrates the power of collective music-making. Catering to a diverse range of musical tastes, the club delves into an expansive repertoire spanning from the sweeping melodies of film scores to the electric rhythms of rock classics. Each piece is thoughtfully arranged to suit the rich tapestry of instruments in a large concert band, ensuring every performance is both unique and memorable. Members collaborate, hone their instrumental skills, and experience the unparalleled joy of bringing stories to life through music. Whether you're a fan of cinematic epics or rock anthems, the Concert Band Club offers a harmonious journey through the ages and genres of music. Join us, and let's create symphonic magic together!Music basement
Tuesdays 3:30pm to 4:30pm
Musical Theatre Club
Led by Kirsty Cherrett, open to students of all abilities.Welcome to the Musical Theatre Club, the ultimate destination for students with a flair for the dramatic arts and a passion for the stage! Led by the talented Kirsty Cherrett, this extra-curricular club offers a holistic experience in the world of musical theatre, encompassing singing, acting, and live performance. What sets this club apart is Kirsty's rich expertise and a proven track record: many of her protégés have secured coveted roles in Westend hits such as The Lion King, School of Rock, The Bodyguard, and Motown! Whether you're a budding actor, a gifted singer, or simply someone with a dream to shine on the theatrical stage, this club provides the perfect platform to learn, grow, and potentially make your way to the spotlight of the Westend. Experience the magic of musical theatre and join us on a journey of storytelling, song, and spectacular performances!Room M006
Thursdays 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm.