What a transformation! A couple of months ago our GCSE pupils were found practising for their mocks in the cleaner’s store, and now we have a suite of rooms from which they can take their pick! The new music department has been a dream come true. Mrs Cruise has always dreamt of working in a purpose built music department, and now it seems that the dream really has come to fruition. Not only do the three music teachers love their spacious new classrooms (Mrs Ashe can get all the way round the outside of her pupil’s desks without a single bruise!!!), but they are also enjoying the luxury of a recording studio, an orchestra room, a rock room, practice rooms, study rooms and a much longed for ICT suite – all equipped with the most up to date equipment.
Each of the music classrooms are equipped with an interactive whiteboard, which we have already put to extensive use – such a difference from the overhead projectors and acetates we were using in December!
The orchestra room can remain set up for orchestra practice at all time, saving so much precious time which was previously spent clearing desks, constructing music stands and hauling percussion instruments out of cupboards in stores. The percussion section has expanded to include a glockenspiel, xylophone, gong and a set of timpani drums. Just wait until you hear the National Anthem next prize distribution!
Instrumental tutors now have their own practice rooms in which to teach, and pupils can use these rooms in their spare time to practice. Three of these are equipped with digital drum kits so drum students can practice (with headphones) any time they choose. There are also beautiful brand new pianos in each of these rooms for accompanying instrumental pupils.
The ICT suite is particularly beneficial. Previously music teachers were unable to deliver the composition element of music effectively as they were limited to using recorders and percussion instruments, however now pupils will use Garageband, Sibelius and Logic software to compose their masterpieces! Composition will now be developed within key stage 3, and by key stage 4 pupils will be experts, (we can but hope!) This has also had a huge impact on the Performing Arts classes, who are now working extremely hard researching and typing up evidence. Gone are the days of fighting over 6 slow computers with no Internet access.
The stage has a spectacular baby grand piano, and a fully equipped rock band, amplified by a 48 channel sound desk (which is housed in the control booth). There is also a lighting rigg that, when fully operational, will control up to 96 lights.
The back stage area is very spacious and will make a huge difference whenever we are putting on large productions. The rehearsal room is also part of our theatre back stage area and will be used by performers when preparing for performances and on the night.