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Music

Subject Lead: Mrs D Wallace

Music Curriculum

Notation –  The children recognise the connection between sound and symbol. They familiarise themselves with and learn an instrumental part that matches their musical challenge, using one of the differentiated parts – a one-note, simple or medium part or the melody of the song from memory or using notation.

Singing on Pitch – children sing a range of high and low musical notes.
Improvisation – the children make up their own tune that has never been heard before. It is not written down and belongs to them.
Composition – music that is created by the children and kept in some way. It is like writing a story. It can be played or performed again to your friend. The children have opportunities to compose musical pieces with instruments and using software.
Playing with glockenspiels – our class set of glockenspiels are an important feature of Music lessons. They are used for copyback activities, improvisation, composition and playing differentiated parts to Unit songs.
Performing – Children at The Ryde School perform regularly and get ample opportunities to perfect their performances during rehearsals.

Young Voices

At the beginning of Spring Term 2024, our Young Voices choir embarked on an unforgettable journey to the O2 Arena, where they joined 8,000 other young voices for a mesmerizing musical event.  Since September, our choir has dedicated themselves to weekly lunchtime rehearsals, meticulously preparing a diverse repertoire of songs and dances for this highly anticipated occasion.

Featuring a range of popular hits, Gospel tunes, and show tune medleys, the Young Voices repertoire delighted both performers and audience alike.  Highlights of the evening included energetic renditions of ‘Walk the Dinosaur’, captivating mash-ups of Moana and Matilda and more.

After an intensive three-hour rehearsal session in the afternoon, the lights dimmed and the arena erupted with excitement as the concert began.  Our children were entertained by special guest artists, including MC Grammar, Natalie Williams and the incredible drumming talents of 13-year old Nandi Bushell.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our enthusiastic supporters, whose energy and encouragement added to the atmosphere of the evening.  A particularly memorable moment was the spirited dance-off between the audience and our children, set to iconic 90s tunes.

Our Young Voices choir showcased their talent and dedication, representing The Ryde School with pride.  We commend them for their stamina, enthusiasm, and positive spirit throughout the event.  Special appreciation also goes to our dedicated staff team and parent volunteers whose efforts ensured a safe and memorable experience for all.

Quotes from our Young Voices

Here are a few remarks from pupils who attended the Young Voices Choir event.  Based on their feedback, it seems they had an incredible experience!

“It was mind-blowing.” James, Year 4

“It was fun and I loved the songs.” Isabel, Year 3

“I liked that we got the chance to be in the biggest choir and it was really fun. I got to sing and dance. It was a great opportunity that we may not have again.” Amanda, Year 5

“It was magical.” Ella, Year 4

“I loved the Rock music.” James, Year 3

“I liked how everyone bonded.  There were loads of people but we all did the same thing.” Lucy, Year 5

“Everyone singing together in harmony and the experience good altogether.” Phoebe. O, Year 3

“I think the atmosphere was really good and we got to sing the songs we had been learning.” Oliver, Year 6

“A breath-taking experience.” Kirubanraj, Year 4

“The medleys were really creative.” Zofia, Year 6

“I loved the lights and singing together.” Lindiwe, Year 3

“I thought it was a life-changing experience.” Hisham, Year 4

The Ryde School uses music to overcome lockdown blues

Music has played a vital role in the recovery of children who suffered through mental illness due to isolation during the pandemic for two years.

The Ryde School, in Pleasant Rise, Hatfield, has encouraged the use of music to stimulate emotional responses, develop creative, social and vocational skills to heighten children’s confidence and self-esteem and facilitate positive changes in behaviour and wellbeing.

This culminated in a sponsored singathon at the end of summer term, which saw the whole school sing together for an hour to raise funds which will be used to support the school and to buy new musical instruments.

So far, the school has raised £1,200 with more donations expected both from parents and local businesses.

School music lead Dawn Wallace said: “The singathon went splendidly well. It was such a joy for all the children and staff. The children sang with all their hearts, were enthusiastic and very motivated. The whole school were assembled together – from Reception to Year 6 – and, in truth, we passed the hour finishing line. At the end, there were cheers, applause and laughter. We did it!

“This has been a great achievement and will enable us to provide additional learning resources and musical instruments for our children.”

Reception children received the first prize and each child was gifted with bath bombs donated by Hatfield’s Marks & Spencer. Year 1 students received second prize and every child was given a cupcake donated by Hatfield’s Cake Hut.