Music

What we are aiming for

At Bassenthwaite, we believe that music is a powerful and important part of children’s learning and development. Our music curriculum embraces creativity and gives children opportunities to listen, sing, play, compose and perform in a wide range of contexts.

We want children to develop confidence in making music and expressing themselves. Through music, pupils explore a range of genres, styles and traditions from different cultures and time periods, helping them to develop curiosity, respect and appreciation for diversity.

Music supports children to recognise the value and importance of music in their own lives and within the wider community. We aim to inspire a lifelong love of music, encouraging children to enjoy listening, performing and creating music both individually and collaboratively.

How learning happens

Mixed-age classes

Music is taught in mixed-age classes where a supportive and inclusive environment allows all children to take part and succeed. Units are planned on a rolling cycle to ensure full curriculum coverage and clear progression in musical skills as children move through the school.

Teachers work alongside specialist music teachers to deliver high-quality music lessons. Children build on prior learning and are encouraged to develop confidence and independence as musicians.

How we get there

Music is taught through practical, creative and performance-based activities. Children explore music by actively making and responding to it.

Children learn to work like musicians by:

  • singing and performing vocally
  • playing percussion and tuned instruments
  • exploring pulse, rhythm, pitch, tempo and dynamics
  • composing and improvising music
  • listening to and responding to music from different times and cultures
  • reflecting on and evaluating their own work and the work of others

All children have the opportunity to learn to play an instrument as they move into the juniors. Specialist music teachers deliver weekly tuition in instruments such as brass, violin, cello and guitar to groups of Key Stage 1 and 2 pupils. Visiting musicians from different cultures are invited into school to broaden children’s musical experiences.

Music is also used to support assemblies, dramatic productions and special services, helping children apply their skills in meaningful, real-life situations.

Knowledge, vocabulary and musical thinking

Our music curriculum develops both:

  • musical knowledge, including rhythm, pitch, tempo, structure and notation
  • musical thinking, including listening, composing, analysing, evaluating and performing

Key musical vocabulary is introduced and revisited so children can talk confidently about what they hear, play and create. Children are encouraged to experiment, take creative risks and learn from mistakes, building resilience, independence and confidence.

Regular listening opportunities help children develop an understanding of music by composers and musicians from a range of cultures and historical periods.

What children gain

Through our music curriculum, children:

  • develop confidence in singing, playing and performing
  • build creativity through composition and improvisation
  • learn to listen carefully and respond thoughtfully to music
  • develop teamwork, cooperation and empathy when performing with others
  • gain an appreciation of music from a wide range of cultures and traditions

Music supports children’s spiritual, moral, social and cultural development by encouraging expression, reflection, collaboration and respect.

By the time they leave Bassenthwaite, pupils see music as enjoyable, meaningful and accessible, and feel confident to continue their musical journey beyond primary school.

How we know

We know children are making progress in music through their increasing confidence, musical skill development and ability to talk about music using appropriate vocabulary.

Teachers and specialist music teachers assess learning through:

  • observation of performance and participation
  • listening and responding activities
  • composition and improvisation tasks
  • discussion, reflection and evaluation

Ongoing assessment ensures musical understanding and skills continue to develop as children move through the school.

How you can help at home

Parents and carers play an important role in supporting children’s enjoyment of music.

Listen to music together

Share a wide range of music at home, including different styles, cultures and time periods. Talk about how the music makes you feel and what you notice.

Encourage singing and performing

Sing together at home, in the car or during everyday routines. Encourage your child to perform songs or rhythms they have learned at school.

Explore rhythm and sound

Clap rhythms, tap beats or use household objects to create sounds. This helps children develop pulse and rhythm in a fun, informal way.

Support practice positively

If your child is learning an instrument, encourage short, regular practice sessions. Praise effort and perseverance rather than perfection.

Celebrate confidence

Encourage your child to share their music with others and talk about what they are proud of. Building confidence is key to musical progress.

Helpful websites for families

Parents and carers may find the following websites useful for supporting music learning at home:

These resources are most effective when used alongside shared listening, discussion and enjoyment of music at home.

Our Bassenthwaite Music Development Plan 2025-2026 can be read by clicking this link.