The programme of study

Although individual music courses in schools may differ in content, when following a balanced programme of music activities, pupils are likely to engage in the interrelated practical activities of performing, composing and listening.

The knowledge, skills and understanding in the programmes of study identify the aspects of music in which pupils make progress as:

• Performance skills - controlling sounds through singing and playing
• Composing skills - creating and developing musical ideas through their own compositions and through improvising
• Appraising skills - reviewing and responding to music they have heard and communicating ideas and feelings about music
• Listening skills - applying a knowledge and understanding of how music is created, performed and heard

Introduction to a wide range of music from different times, places and cultures in order to develop pupils' knowledge and understanding of both their own work and the work of others is essential. Practical work will involve the development of skills in a range of activities including technical ability on their instrument. Ideas which stimulate their creative abilities in both improvising and composing, and a wide repertoire of listening materials will help support their critical faculties as well as their listening skills. A talented pupil may excel in one or more of the areas of musical activity and may need stimulation through a breadth of study across many genres and styles. In many cases, talented pupils may need to work hard in some aspects of their musical development such as aural capacities or improvisation skills. They may not necessarily show excellence in all aspects of musical activities.