From dawn till dusk the sound of children singing and playing their instruments permeates the corridors of St George’s. Whether it’s choirs rehearsing in the early morning, jazz band jamming at lunchtime or choristers chanting the psalms at Evensong, music is a vital part of life at St George’s. We foster an environment of enjoyment and positive reinforcement in order to support and motivate each child. With a variety of different learning styles across the school, we ensure that provision (curriculum and practical) caters for the needs of each child so that they can find their individual voice and flourish as a musician.
Classroom music equips children with the knowledge and skills that enable them to fully enjoy listening, performing and composing with a sound understanding of the subject. In addition, key topics through the school are reflected in the music covered. In the early years the focus is on practical music making, with music reading and composition coming later in their development. As children progress through the school they take more responsibility for their learning; by the Upper School they are preparing performances and compositions independently or in small groups.
Computers and other technology are increasingly in use at St George’s too, with programmes such as Sibelius and Garage Band featuring in lessons, thus embracing a culture of both live and electronic music.
We want pupils to leave St George’s as well-rounded, modern-thinking children who are proud to be musicians of the twenty-first century.
Individual Instrumental and Vocal Tuition
A dedicated team of visiting music teachers (VMTs) offers tuition on the full range of orchestral instruments, in addition to piano, voice, guitar, drums, and organ. Music lessons are arranged on a rota basis, limiting disruption to academic lessons. All VMTs are professional musicians whose balance of teaching and performance support our children’s learning. Children in the Lower School all learn to play the recorder and some children start individual musical lessons from Year 1.
We encourage children to undertake music exams (practical and theory) as they increase in confidence and ability. Again, understanding the different learning styles, we offer both Associated Board (ABRSM) and Trinity College of London (Trinity Guildhall).
Children are encouraged to work positively and enthusiastically in their preparation between music lessons. Their teacher writes notes into a practice book which children (and parents) are asked to refer to between music lessons. Learning an instrument is a great challenge, with a real sense of achievement for pupils as they progress.