Music
Music is a vibrant part of the culture of Camden School for Girls. The school has a musical tradition stretching back over many decades and have built numerous links with other local schools and music organisations.
The aim of the department is to engage students in genuine music-making. We focus on teaching students the necessary skills and concepts to make music with confidence and enthusiasm and to provide a broad range of opportunities for them to do so. This is carried out within three complementary areas: the timetabled curriculum, the extended curriculum and the instrumental service.
Timetabled Curriculum
We believe that music lessons at KS3 are fundamental to our students' musical journey. The high-quality, positive musical experiences we create in Years 7, 8 and 9 prepare our students to continue their involvement in music-making as they progress through the school.
Our aim is to develop the students' musical skills and understanding through exploring a broad range of culturally diverse styles, genres and traditions.
Curriculum Information
Extended Curriculum
Music Ensembles
The school has a thriving extended curriculum. Our regular ensembles include:
- Junior Voices - This choir is open to all students in years 7 and 8
- String Group - This group is for orchestral string players of grade 2 standard and above
- Woodwind Group - This group is for orchestral woodwind players of grade 2 standard and above
- Brass Group - This group is for brass players of grade 2 standard and above
- Big Band - The group is open to players of woodwind, brass, drum kit, guitarists, pianists and electric/double bass players. This group is for players of grade 4 standard and above
- Symphony Orchestra - This group is for more advanced orchestral players of grade 5 standard and above
- Chamber Choir - This choir is for singers in Year 9 and above
These groups rehearse regularly at lunchtimes and before or after school and they perform in public concerts throughout the year. Pupils also publicly perform work that they have prepared in their timetabled lessons.
These activities allow pupils who show a particular aptitude and enthusiasm for music to develop their skills further.
Vocal and Instrumental Lessons
A wide variety of individual vocal and instrumental lessons are available in school. We have a team of around 25 visiting tutors who work with our students. Fees are charged for these lessons with some financial subsidies available.
Students sign up for instrument lessons through the music office. They can start at any point in the year, although it is preferable to begin at the start of a term.
Lessons take place during the normal school day but the time rotates so that the same lesson isn't missed every week. Sometimes lessons will take place at break, lunchtime or after school. Sixth form students will have a lesson in their free periods, lunch break or before/after school.
Each week the teacher will give out the time of the next lesson. These are also written up on a noticeboard outside the staff room.
If you have any questions please email music@csg.school