Performing Arts & Music
Music
At PACA our learning journey in Music consists of:
- Studying different genres of music
- Developing skills on a variety of instruments
- Performing and recording music alone or with a group.
- Exploring music products and styles:
- a) genres of music (an extensive look at genres from 1960-present, world music, classical music, music for media)
- b) development of music (iconic bands, composers and producers who have influenced music and the impact of technology)
- c) more in depth music theory
- Musical skills development
- a) Exploring professional and commercial skills for the music industry
In year 7 our students learn about:
- Find Your Voice- singing, creating sounds with our voices, rap, beatboxing
- Keyboard skills- playing scales, reading musical notation, rhythm, melody, chords
- World music- appreciating music from around the world
In year 8 our students learn about:
- Reggae- stylistic features, off beat, chords, playing in a band
- Cover songs- elements of music, song arrangement, interpretation, reading music
- Hip-hop- samples, use of technology, rap, DJ techniques, programmed beats
In year 9 our students learn about:
- Blues, Bhangra, Western classical music- with an in depth look into the musical foundations of these styles
- Creating original music (composition, songwriting or sequencing)
- Exploring their own style as a performer or artist
In Key Stage 4 our students focus on 2 main components:
- Exploring music products and styles:
a) genres of music (an extensive look at genres from 1960-present, world music, classical music, music for media)
b) development of music (iconic bands, composers and producers who have influenced music and the impact of technology)
c) more in depth music theory
- Musical skills development
a) Exploring professional and commercial skills for the music industry
b) Applying and developing individual musical skills and techniques.
You can read more about our music curriculum here.
A wider variety of opportunities than ever is now on offer at PACA for experienced and beginner musicians including choirs and band workshops.
You can also see our teachers' open evening presentations below:
Performing Arts
Drama, dance and music are all areas that provide students with the ability to work together and gain confidence. Regular showcases, talent contests and productions develop students’ performance and production skills.
Dance in particular benefits students as it:
- Releases a hormone called endorphins that can reduces stress and depression
- Increases serotonin and increases energy •Improves flexibility, strength, balance and endurance
- Strengthens bones and boost cardiovascular health •Increases mental capacity by exercising our cognitive processes known as movement memory in dance terminology
- Dynamic and rapid fire decision making, creates new neural paths
- Improves self confidence •Learn to see detail and focus on technical and expressing skills
- Trains your musical ear- musicality, rhythm and timing
- Develops your concentration
- Improves determination and perseverance
- Improves creative skills
- Improves social skills and communication skills
- GIVES ENJOYMENT
You can read more about our dance curriculum here.
The curriculum is strengthened by going to see professional productions such as The Lion King at the LyceumTheatre, Twelfth Night at the Brighton Open Air Theatre and A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Pavilion Studio Theatre.
Trips also regularly take place to the Brighton Festival and for the last couple of years we attended a Glyndebourne production.
Last year PACA’s end of year production was Aladdin.
You can also see our teachers' open evening presentations below:
