At St Mark’s, we provide a high quality music education which enables children to develop a love of music whilst increasing self-confidence, creativity and a sense of achievement. Our aim is to provide an engaging and inspiring curriculum which gives pupils a love of music whilst also nurturing their talent as musicians. Through our scheme (Charanga Musical School) and topic work, pupils have the opportunity to perform, listen to, review and evaluate music across a range of historical periods, genres, styles and traditions. They learn to sing and to use their voices, to create and compose music on their own and with others and also have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument. In KS1, the children enjoy singing songs and speaking chants and rhymes. They have the opportunity to play both tuned and percussion instruments which they use to create, select and combine sounds. They also listen and move to a wide range of music. Children in KS2 build on the skills acquired in KS1 so that, by the end of year 6, they sing and play with increasing control and self-confidence. They deepen their understanding of music in the world and the significance of music through history. Children are encouraged to explore their own musical preferences and discuss these with confidence. In addition, all children take part in weekly singing lessons which contribute to our Harvest, Christmas and Easter celebrations. Our Christmas and end of year performances provide an opportunity for the children to share their work in music with parents, governors and other friends of the school.