The Music Department is a busy, thriving department where students enjoy composing, performing and listening to music. In lessons, students learn to play the keyboard, guitars, samba instruments, African drums and learn to use music technology. There is an extensive extra-curricular programme offered during lunchtimes and after school (choir, jazz band, orchestra, theory club, African drumming, keyboard club). Instrumental lessons are offered to all students, with a wide range of instruments available to learn.

Highlights of 2011 Results

• This year we were very proud of the achievement of our A2 cohort who achieved 80% A* - C in their A2 Music Technology course.
• GCSE results – 75% A* - C
• A/S results – 84% A* - E
• A2 results – 80% A* - C

Current Developments

All students in Year 7 have taster lessons at the beginning of the academic year to identify interest in instrumental lessons and assess aptitude, including students who are Talented in Music.

The department now has 35 iMac computers which are used by students at KS3, KS4 and KS5 for coursework and classwork. They are also available for students to use after school.

Beyond QK

Last year the Music department launched the ‘Very Important Musicians’ series where musicians and other professionals in the music industry come into the school and deliver a talk, performance or workshop to students. We had two visits last year and hope to build on that for 2011-2012

In February GCSE students were involved in a workshop with the National Theatre based on their production of ‘FELA!’ and in July both Year 10 and 11 students went to see the show at Sadler’s Wells Theatre.

Following the success of an ‘evening at the orchestra’ for GCSE students last year, we are hoping to develop our relationship with the ROSAM orchestra which rehearses at QK on a weekly basis.