At John Kyrle High School, Music is a practical, inclusive and ambitious subject where every student has the opportunity to develop as a performer, composer and listener.

We believe that music is for everyone. Through performing, composing, listening and analysing, students develop creativity, resilience, self-confidence and teamwork, while exploring a diverse range of musical styles and traditions.

Through curriculum lessons, enrichment opportunities and performance experiences, we aim to nurture confident, creative and knowledgeable young musicians. Whether students continue music as a hobby, pursue qualifications at Key Stage 4 or go on to further study and careers within the creative industries, our aim is for every student to leave John Kyrle with a lifelong appreciation of music.

Facilities

Our Music Department is situated in a purpose-built block with excellent facilities, including:

• Two specialist music classrooms
• Dedicated keyboard teaching spaces
• A fully equipped Apple iMac suite for music technology and composition
• Five practice rooms, including two with studio recording equipment
• A professional control room and mixing desk
• A wide range of instruments, including keyboards, guitars, bass guitars, ukuleles, drum kits, percussion and orchestral instruments

Students also have access to industry-standard technology, including BandLab for Education, Logic Pro X, MuseScore and professional recording equipment.

Department Staff

Mr Matt Ball
Subject Lead for Music
m.ball@jkhs.org.uk

Mr Alex Davis
Teacher of Music
a.davis@jkhs.org.uk

Key Stage 3 Music

Our Key Stage 3 curriculum is built around the Building Bricks of Music, giving students the knowledge, practical skills and musical vocabulary they need to become confident and independent musicians.

Students learn through practical music-making, singing, ensemble performance, composition, listening and music technology.

Year 7: Explore

Students explore the fundamental building blocks of music while developing confidence in performing, composing and listening.

Topics include:

• Elements of Music and African Drumming
• Keyboard Skills and Music Technology
• Programme Music

Year 8: Develop

Students deepen their musical understanding and begin applying their skills in more challenging musical contexts, developing greater independence as performers and composers.

Topics include:

• Blues and Rock ’n’ Roll
• Theme and Variation
• Heroes and Villains

Year 9: Refine

Students refine their musicianship and prepare for the different pathways available at Key Stage 4.

Topics include:

• What Makes a Good Song?
• Music in Film
• Video Game Music and Music Festivals

Throughout Key Stage 3, students develop their musical vocabulary and regularly revisit key knowledge. This helps them confidently discuss, analyse and evaluate music using accurate musical terminology and prepares them for further study at Key Stage 4.

Key Stage 4 Music

At Key Stage 4, students can choose from two distinct pathways based on their interests, strengths and future aspirations.

Eduqas GCSE Music

GCSE Music develops students as performers, composers and listeners through a combination of practical and academic study.

Students study Musical Forms and Devices, Music for Ensemble, Film Music and Popular Music.

Course Structure:

• Performing: 30% – solo and ensemble performances
• Composing: 30% – one free composition and one composition to a set brief
• Listening and Appraising: 40% – written examination covering all Areas of Study

Pearson BTEC Tech Award in Music Practice

The BTEC Music pathway is ideal for students interested in practical music-making, music production and music technology.

Course Structure:

• Component 1: 30% – Exploring Music Products and Styles
• Component 2: 30% – Music Skills Development
• Component 3: 40% – Responding to a Music Brief

Students develop practical and professional skills in areas including performance, recording, sequencing, production and project development.

Instrumental Lessons

John Kyrle High School works closely with Encore Enterprises Music Hub to offer individual and small-group tuition across a wide range of instruments, including:

• Guitar and bass guitar
• Piano and keyboard
• Vocals
• Brass
• Drum kit
• Violin, viola, cello and double bass
• Flute, clarinet and oboe

Support is available for eligible students through school funding and instrument-hire schemes.

Music Beyond the Classroom

Music extends far beyond the classroom at John Kyrle. Students are encouraged to get involved in a wide range of extra-curricular activities and performance opportunities.

Current groups include:

• JKHS Band
• JKHS Choir
• Sqwonk (Woodwind Group)
• JKHS String Group
• Music Technology Club
• KS4 Coursework Hub

Practice rooms are available every break and lunchtime, allowing students to rehearse independently, collaborate with others and develop their musicianship.

Students also have regular opportunities to perform both in school and within the local community, including:

• JKHS Carol Concert at St Mary’s Church, Ross-on-Wye
• Summer Showcase Concert
• School productions
• Open evenings
• Community performances
• Rewards and celebration events

Coming in March 2027: Matilda Jr.

The department continues to expand its performance opportunities and strengthen links with local organisations, community groups and musical partners.