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Our aim is to actively involve pupils in music making. We strive to cater not only for the musically gifted, but for every pupil in the school so that their full potential can be realised, whatever their ability.

 

Through practical involvement in music Craigholme enriches the lives of pupils by developing the skills and insights which are part of the full enjoyment of music.

 

SYLLABUS
The three key areas of the curriculum, at all levels, are Performing, Inventing and Listening. These areas are equally weighed in that they develop the pupil's instrumental, creative and aural skills. Beginning in the Nursery, pupils enjoy singing and continue to learn songs associated with their topic work throughout their time in the Junior School. All J4-J7 pupils learn to play recorder, on which they are encouraged to compose their own melodies throughout the course.

 

S1 & S2 2 periods p/w [rota basis]
In S1 and S2, pupils are taught how to play keyboard, guitar and drums. Throughout the Listening course they learn about instruments of the orchestra, music in the media, operas and musicals and the music of Scotland, while continuing to develop their own compositions. Pupils will also gain experience in technology by arranging and mixing their own music.

 

STANDARD GRADE 3 periods p/w
All pupils play music, both on their own and in groups. They are involved in the interesting activities of composing, arranging and improvising. In addition, they are encouraged to listen to recorded and live music produced by themselves and others. Pupils are assessed on their first instrument by an external examiner while the second instrument is assessed in class by the teacher.

 

HIGHER 5 periods p/w
The course is intended for candidates who wish to develop breadth and overall musicianship as performers, composers and listeners. This aim is served by the inclusion in the course of three 40 hour units:

 

Music: Composing
Music: Listening Music: Performing (performance on two instruments / instrument and voice)


OR


Music: Performing with Technology (performance on one instrument or voice and MIDI sequencing or sound engineering and production folio)

 

A further 40 hours of course time is provided for induction, extending the range of learning and teaching approaches, integration, additional support, consolidation and preparation for course assessment.

 

ADVANCED HIGHER 3 periods p/w
The arrangements for Advanced Higher are similar to those at Higher with the introduction of an added Listening Commentary on two or more musical works.

 

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Within the department there are weekly rehearsals for the Senior, Junior and Training Choirs. We also have weekly rehearsals for both the Senior and Junior Orchestras. Other rehearsals taking place on a weekly basis cater for The Clarinet Quartet, two Flute Groups and a String Ensemble

 

ASSOCIATIONS ELSEWHERE
Through WOSIS (West of Scotland Independent Schools) the Music Department has close associations with other schools. This association provides opportunites for talented pupils to participate in weekend courses twice every year. In March 2007, eight pupils represented Craigholme School at a concert in The Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama.

 

INSTRUMENTAL TUITION Craigholme offers tuition for a number of musical instruments to both Junior and Senior pupils. For more information please click the following links:

Instrumental Tuition

Instrumental Tuition Scheme

Music Tuition Application Form

 

MUSICIAN OF THE YEAR

The Music Department is running a musical competition open to pupils from grade 2 upwards. The competition is open to those who receive instrumental tuition in school and outwith school. For details please click on the following links:

Musician of the Year Application Form

Musician of the Year Rules and Regulations 

 

SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarships are on offer for cornet, French horn, tenor horn, trombone & bass guitar. For details please click here

STAFF: Mr M Donnelly (Head) Mrs M Craig & Mrs A McFadden