Laurelhill College

The Music Department believes all pupils should be encouraged to reach their full musical and creative potential. Through listening, performing, composing and appraising activities, pupils will build up a variety of skills which will help to develop them as a person.

We encourage pupils to not only display their musical ability within the classroom but also through school events which provide a wider audience, allowing pupils to develop as musicians. We are committed to the belief that making and responding to music should be an enjoyable experience!

Key Stage 3

Pupils have the opportunity to learn about a variety of musical elements and devices through listening, composing, performing and appraising activities. All pupils at Key Stage 3 follow a progressive course in recorder. In Years 9 and 10, keyboard activities are also introduced. Any pupils who are learning instruments other than the recorder and keyboard are strongly encouraged to use them in composing and performing activities. All pupils are also encouraged to sing in class especially when school musicals and community charity events are imminent.

GCSE Music

The GCSE Music class have the opportunity to develop the skills taught in Junior College classes. Pupils will study a variety of set works via the areas of study (Repeated Patterns, Incidental Music and Vocal Music) for the listening paper (35%), submit two pieces of composition and perform solo and ensemble pieces. GCSE Music pupils play an integral part in College productions, concerts, carol services, special assemblies and other events around the community.
Pupils can study Music at a further level through A-Level Music. 

A-Level Music

A-Level Music is now being offered in Years 13 (AS-Level) and 14 (A2-Level) in collaboration with the LALC (Lisburn Area Learning Community). This course gives pupils a further opportunity to develop their musical abilities through Set Works, Areas of Study, Performance and Composition. As with GCSE, pupils will be involved in a number of musical activities within and outside of the College.

Pupils may decide to venture into third level education with this qualification.  Post A-Level Music pupils are now studying Music at University and Further Educaiton College.

Extra-Curricular Activities.

The Music staff are supported by Brass and Woodwind tutors from the South Eastern Education and Library Board’s Music Centre. Private tuition is also provided by keyboard, singing, drum and guitar tutors. Pupils have the opportunity to develop further by completing examinations in their chosen instrument. Pupils also have the opportunity to participate in the College Choir, Band, Theory Club and in 2012, DJ Club.

The main events within the Music Department’s calendar includes the annual College Dramatic / Musical Production including singers, chorus, College Band and dancers, College Carol Services, Spring Concert as well as opportunities for the Choir, Band and soloists to provide musical entertainment for various groups within the Lisburn Community. In June 2011, GCSE, A-Level Music, Performing Arts and Drama pupils had the opportunity to visit London with a focus on the West End Shows such as Wicked and We Will Rock You.

In light of the success of the 2011 Music and Drama Trip, we hope to visit London in June 2013.