Music Department

Members of Staff:-

Specialist instrumental tutors:

Outline of S1 & S2 Syllabus

The three, equally-weighted, areas of the curriculum are Perfromiing, Composition and Listening.  There is a strong singing tradition in Fernhill and many topics, concepts and devices are taught through song which is accessible to all.  Performing in the classroom takes place regularly with self, and peer, assessment in place as an importantnaid to progress and improvement of skills.  Listening activities are more formal with a wide range of styles and forms experienced. 

Homework is issued occasionally.

Outline of S3 & S4 Syllabus

 Again the three elements of Performing, Composing and Listening form the backbone of this course with all pupils performing on two instruments.  Listening skills are enhanced by involvement in the choir, instrumental groups and orchestra as well as by the formal Listening course covering Classical music from 1600 to the present day and music from around the world. 

Composition has an integral role in the understanding of concepts and styles and is readily accessible through the use of computer software.  Performing skills form 50% of the course.

Homework is issued regularly over and above the requirement of regular practice on two instruments.

 Outline of S5 & S6 Syllabus

The three elements again form the basis of the Higher Music course with extension into detailed study of form, concepts and genre.  Performing, at this level, is more advanced with emphasis on developing style and maturity in performance.

 At Advanced Level the same format is set with the addition of a 'Listening Commentary' on two or more works which encourages pupils to extend their knowledge in their own particular field.

 Accompanying is another very worthwhile option that can be pusued.

Homework is issued regularly over and above the requirement of regular practice on two instruments.

Outline of P7 Syllabus

The three core elements of Performing, Listening and Composing evident in the course, whilst singing is at its heart with associated listening and composing projects covering the music of many cultures as well as the western 'Classical' tradition.

Extra-curricular activities organised by the department:-

Secondary School Choir

Secondary Chamber Choir

Primary School Choir

Fernhill School Orchestra

Junior String Ensemble

Senior String Ensemble

Flute Ensemble

Clarinet Ensemble (Junior & Senior)

Saxophone Ensemble (Junior & Senior)

School Choir Concert Tours

School Charity Concerts

Instrumental tuition is available, if suitable, from Primary 4.

All pupils are encouraged, with practical support throughout the whole range of abilities, to realise their full musical potential.

Pupils are prepared, and presented, for Associated Board Examinations in both Theory and Practical at the appropriate level, with the guidance of all music staff.

In S1 and S2 all pupils have the opportunity to attend a Symphony Orchestra Concert.

Every girl in the Secondary Department takes part in the House Choir Competition at the annual Fernhill School Music Festival.

The Secondary School Choir recorded a second CD, Voices from Fernhill in 2007.