The Music Curriculum Overview covers a diverse range of musical topics and genres across different year groups. This curriculum can be linked to the five fundamental British values: democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, mutual respect, and tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs. Here's how some of the curriculum content aligns with these values:
- Democracy:
- Group Performances (e.g., Marching Music, Samba): Encouraging students to work together in ensembles fosters democratic principles such as collaboration, listening to others, and making collective decisions.
- Protest Songs (Year 6): Studying songs that express social change and collective action highlights the importance of democratic participation and advocacy.
- Rule of Law:
- Structured Learning (e.g., Ostinato, Beat Music): Learning about musical structures and rules, such as rhythm and harmony, helps students understand the importance of rules and order in creating cohesive and harmonious outcomes.
- The Hallelujah Chorus (Year 5): Understanding the structured composition and the layering of motifs in Handel's work emphasizes the significance of order and discipline in music.
- Individual Liberty:
- Creative Expression (e.g., Stories in Sound, Emotions in Sound): Providing opportunities for students to express themselves through music supports the value of individual liberty, allowing them to explore their creativity and personal interpretations.
- Voice and Body Percussion (Year 6): Encouraging students to create sound with body percussion and voice promotes individual creativity and freedom of expression.
- Mutual Respect:
- Diverse Genres (e.g., Indian Classical Music, African American Spirituals, English Folk Songs): Studying music from various cultures and traditions promotes mutual respect and appreciation for the contributions of different communities to the musical world.
- Working Songs (Year 4): Learning about sea shanties and Bhangra songs fosters respect for the historical and cultural significance of different musical traditions.
- Tolerance of Different Faiths and Beliefs:
- Global Music (e.g., Gamelan, Indian Classical Music): Exposure to music from different parts of the world encourages students to appreciate and tolerate diverse cultural and religious practices, fostering a more inclusive mindset.
- Lullabies (Year 2): Studying lullabies from different cultures promotes understanding and tolerance of various cultural practices and beliefs.