Music at The King Alfred School

Music at The King Alfred School is for everyone. Whether it is participating in a performance in class, joining in with your form in Callover, taking part in one of the variety of school ensembles, going on tour to Spain or performing in the Royal Albert Hall – there is something for every pupil.

Our aim is to encourage every child to have a love and open mind to all musical styles and genres, and to be able to take part in as many different musical activities as possible in their time at the school. We demand and expect the highest standard and commitment without being selective – any child can participate in the concerts, activities and productions we offer. The only select ensemble is Chamber Choir that needs to remain select in order to remain a Chamber group!

The Music Department is a department of two class teachers, a Music Technology teacher and 17 instrumental teachers. Music at The King Alfred School is taught throughout KS 3, GCSE and A level. If a student does not select Music for public examination they are still able to access music making through the variety of extra curricular activities available as well as in Choice sessions. In 2007 Music Technology was offered as a new AS level option and this has had an enormous impact on the quality of the compositions throughout the music department. Music Technology is also offered as a choice option.

Class sizes are small and range between 16 in Yrs 7, 8, and Yr 9, and between 8 and 17 students at GCSE level. A level classes have ranged between 1 and 8 students in a class. As classes are small, it is easier to develop a good relationship with students and take a personal approach to learning. The Music Department staff understand each individual students strengths and weaknesses; they know how to engage students as individuals and believe they can teach them in a way that they feel comfortable with.
When students start studying Music in Middle School they are usually enthusiastic and eager to learn. Staff try to offer students a friendly, relaxed, supportive and encouraging environment in which to learn.

Instrumental Tuition is available at school, with Guitar, bass, violin, viola, piano (Jazz and Classical), Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Drums, Trumpet, Trombone and Singing all offered.