Small group tuition

This web-based CPD programme is primarily designed to support class teachers of KS3 music. However, Music Services have engaged with the programme since its inception and it has become clear that many aspects of the materials are equally relevant to instrumental and vocal teachers.

Teachers who have used the programme with small groups of instrumental/vocal pupils report the following.

• Pupils are more informed musicians, show greater motivation and enjoy the work more.

• Attendance at lessons and retention of pupils is better.

• Instrument/voice skills are more securely embedded and pupils progress to higher standards of work more quickly.

• There is greater ownership of the learning by pupils.

Since the publication of the original DVD in September 2006, nearly 60 Music Services have indicated that they are using the programme in various ways. If you are working for a Music Service, you should therefore ask your line manager about whether the programme is being used, and how staff are being helped to implement relevant aspects within their teaching.

Experience has shown that the most relevant units for instrumental and vocal teachers seem to be Units 3 and 4: these would be a good starting point if you are working independently.

However, these two units build explicitly on the principles of musical learning in Unit 1 – so you will also find the Objectives and outcomes and Good practice sections of Unit 1 useful. While the language and exemplification resources relate explicitly to the KS3 music classroom, the underpinning principles can easily be translated to the instrumental/vocal context with a little imagination.

You could now:

• contact your line manager in your local Music Service to discuss the programme;

• start this programme by exploring aspects of Unit 3 or Unit 4 that seem most relevant;

• look at the other tab to explore the KS2 music CPD programme.

Wider Opportunities

The transition from small group to large group or whole class instrumental/vocal (WCIV) teaching  is challenging and for many instrumental tutors it can be a daunting experience. However with support, good professional development and the realisation that this type of music teaching requires a considerable shift in emphasis and approach, most tutors succeed in developing the new range of musical skills to manage this effectively. When this happens, teaching WCIV programmes is more successful and is a powerful and dynamic experience for teachers and pupils.

Instrumental/vocal tutors who are involved in teaching music to whole classes through an instrument or the voice are discovering that a new pedagogy is emerging.  

Successful practice is seen when music is at the heart of the lesson, aural approaches underpin musical teaching and where creative and integrated lessons allow children to grow musically, sing and play an instrument well by the end of the year both individually and in ensemble.  This involves the integration of general musicianship and instrumental learning supported through improvisation, composing and performing and underpinned by a focus on listening skills and responding to music.  

You could now:

• find out about the Trinity Guildhall/Open University KS2 Music CPD Programme (which is designed to support all those who teach music at Key Stage 2 in wider opportunities type programmes) by reading more;

• look at the other tab to explore the KS3 music programme with small group tuition.