The Music department at RMGS has two full time teachers, both of whom are subject specialists. 

Music is studied by all students up to the end of Year 9, after which it is available as an option subject at GCSE. Then at A Level, the Music Department offers both Music and Music Technology courses.

The Music block is housed in an impressive building separate from the main school, and display work celebrates the achievements of students both in school and in the community. Students who pass instrumental exams have copies of their certificates placed on a “wall of fame”, and display boards show photos from recent concerts, workshops, musicals and trips.

CURRICULUM INTENT 

Music 
We aim to give a broad and balanced musical curriculum, studying music from a diverse range of cultures, periods, and genres. Music is taught as a practical academic subject; as well as learning practical skills, we ingrain a knowledge of theory and contextual understanding. Students learn to work individually and in small groups, and develop their creative approaches to tasks. 

Music Technology 
We aim to give a detailed understanding of the Key Concepts of the technological advancements in popular music, with an ability to analyse and evaluate these concepts in context, and creatively apply them to practical production and composing tasks. 

INSTRUMENT LESSONS

All students have the opportunity to receive peripatetic instrumental lessons, and the form for this is available for download below.

Instrumental lesson times are clearly displayed in the Music foyer, as are details of musical activities and events in the local area, relevant items from published media sources, and details of musical opportunities on offer within the school such as competitions and concert auditions.

EXTRA CURRICULAR MUSIC

The Music Department offers all students the chance to audition for concerts. At Christmas there are two very large concerts involving all of Year 7, all the school ensembles, soloists and smaller musical groups. A charity is chosen each year, with previous charities including Gillingham Street Angels, The Wisdom Hospice, Kent Air Ambulance, the Alzheimer’s Society, and Cancer Research. 
At Easter there are two Soirée concerts; one lower school concert and one upper school concert.

Students have the opportunity to put on their own lunchtime concerts, either as soloists, as part of a band, or as a variety / battle of the bands type event. 

Every other year the Music and Drama departments put on a joint production of a musical. Most recently were performances of High School Musical, Beauty and the Beast, and the cult favourite Little Shop of Horrors.

There are also plenty of opportunities for all students to get involved in musical activities via our extra-curricular clubs – from complete beginners to advanced musicians. Ensembles suitable for beginners include Vocal Chords (keyboard and singing), Ukulele Club, Jam Club, and Music Tech Club. Ensembles where at least one year of experience is required are Junior Wind Band, Brass Group, Trombone Choir, Guitar Club, and String Group.
Our flagship ensemble, Big Band, requires students to have reached at least grade 3 standard on an appropriate instrument. Other clubs are added when appropriate to best provide for the students and their musical abilities and interests. Details of these music ensembles can be found below.