Music

"...with an emphasis on practical music making."

Music is a a core component of life at Rydal Penrhos School, where the ethos is on inclusion, participation and high standards. The atmosphere is nurturing, supportive and compassionate, empowering a love of performing and a lifelong enjoyment of music for everyone. The Owain Arwel Hughes Music School supports mass participation and individual excellence, with independent learning and ambition a core feature.

Why study Music?

All pupils study Music in Year 7, with it becoming an optional subject at GCSE and A/IB level. At this point, two courses are offered to pupils by the Music department: Music and Music Technology.

At A-level and IB, Music builds on performing and technical skills from GCSE, and leads to higher level studies in Music, teaching, composing and performing. A significant level of performance (at least ABRSM Grade 5) is needed to start this course. This is a subject suited to pupils who wish to to develop creativity and imagination; develop a wide range of skills including performance, appreciation and composing; encourage development of musical awareness from a variety of styles; build on the skills already covered lower down the school and to provide spiritual, social and cultural enrichment.

Music Technology develops opportunities in studio recording and computer sequencing, preparing a pupil for posts such as sound engineers and technicians in recording studios. Pupils are expected to have reached a reasonable standard on at least one instrument before starting the course. Some knowledge of music notation is also needed.

The vision of the Music School

• To be an inspirational, innovative, team-spirited music department with a world class reputation.
• Through challenge and responsibility, we aim to encourage all learners to be dedicated and self-motivated musicians.
• We aim to nurture confidence, believing that all learners deserve an opportunity to achieve his /her best.
• We believe and recognise that a strong musical education can act as a very important motivator for well being; developing life skills, social values and international understanding.
• We are committed to serving the community musically within and outside the school