KS2 Singing Composition Project

During the Autumn Term Farlington supplied local primary schools with specialist music teaching one afternoon per week to lead singing and song writing for pupils in year 6. Carefully selected songs on the theme of Individuality, along with original compositions by each class were performed in a joint concert to parents with year 5 children from Farlington school.

Aims

The aims of the project were to provide inclusive learning of musical performance and composition skills through singing to benefit all participating pupils, developing their confidence and creative skills. New material, composed by each class, had a shared theme of ‘Individuality’ which linked into topics being taught elsewhere in the curriculum and anti-bullying week which took place during the week prior to performance.

Background

Communication between Head of Community Outreach at Farlington and local Headteachers established that Holbrook’s pupils could benefit from specialist subject teaching in music and PE.

Resources

Weekly sessions were led by Farlington’s specialist music teacher and supported by the class teachers. Repertoire was licensed by Farlington school and original material was composed with the children and arranged by the specialist music teacher. The culminating concert to parents was hosted at Holbrook Primary School.

Impact

Improvement by all pupils in their ability to compose, rehearse and sing songs, including challenging repertoire, enabled by specialist music teaching and singing in a large combined choir. Evident in final performance. Increased self-confidence and ability identified in some pupils from each school during the project. The Year 6 phase leader also reported a substantial rise in pupil volunteers to sing solo at the subsequent Christmas concert.

Pupil Involvement

The project involved pupils from year 6 at Holbrook Primary School along with Year 5 at Farlington School.

Frequency

Weekly sessions led by Farlington’s music teacher during the Autumn Term.