At St Matthew’s, Music is a vital part of academy life, inspiring children to explore, create, and enjoy music in a variety of ways. Our curriculum develops pupils’ knowledge, skills, and understanding through practical, engaging experiences, encouraging creativity and a love of music.

How We Teach Music

Children develop musical skills through a variety of activities, including:

• Using sounds and music to respond, explore, and express ideas

• Singing in unison and in parts

• Playing a range of percussion and other instruments

• Composing their own music, experimenting with melody, rhythm, and texture

• Listening to and appreciating music, understanding styles, genres, and historical contexts

Music in the Life of the Academy

Music is central to the life of St Matthew’s:

• Children take part in worship and assemblies, contributing through singing and instrumental performance

• Performances and concerts, when available, provide opportunities for pupils to showcase their skills. 

Statutory Requirements 

Music is statutory for Key Stages 1 and 2, and pupils are expected to:

• Perform using voice or instruments with increasing accuracy, fluency, and expression

• Compose and improvise music, developing creative ideas individually and in groups

• Listen and appraise a range of music from different genres, times, and cultures

• Use musical notation to record and interpret music where appropriate

Our Goals for Pupils

By the end of primary school, children at St Matthew’s will:

• Be confident performers, composers, and listeners

• Develop creativity, self-expression, and musical understanding

• Appreciate the role of music in culture, history, and society

• Enjoy making and sharing music, both individually and collaboratively