Music Technology
The brand new music technology suite enables the children to explore sequencing, sound processing, arranging and composing. Pupils get the opportunity to spend a significant amount of time experimenting with the music software available. We have a variety of different programmes which appeal to all age groups.
Music Ace
Under the guidance of animated tutor Maestro Max, pupils are led through a carefully sequenced series of music theory lessons and games. This programme challenges, engages and motivates students and helps them develop important musical skills and concepts.
Garage Band
Pupils are encouraged to experiment with arranging and composing on this highly effective sequencing programme. There is a choice of many sounds and styles from around the world and pupils can burn a CD of their work when it is completed.
Logic Express 7
Pupils investigate the full resource of orchestral and digital sound palate and explore structure in music using advanced sequencing techniques. Work includes post-production techniques including reverb, EQ and effects.
Music
The Orchestra
We aim to develop in pupils the self confidence required to take public performance of any type in their stride. All children are encouraged to perform in public from an early age, whether it is saying a prayer, reading in assembly or singing in front of the whole school and parents.
Music is a central part of life at The Downs, Malvern College Prep and our purpose-built concert hall, music school and music technology suite all facilitate this strong tradition. The majority of children learn an individual instrument, and so have the opportunity to experience the joy of playing as a soloist or as part of the many larger ensembles.
Rock Group - a popular lunch time activity
Cheltenham Festival U13's Mixed Choir Winners 2009
All pupils are encouraged to sing, and the school choir appears regularly at concerts and festivals. We are particularly proud of our success in the Hereford and Chletenham Music Festivals, where the choir has won its class for the past four years.
Achievements in Music 2009
| Pupil |
Musical Award |
Senior School |
| Kate Arnold |
Scholarship |
Malvern College |
| Hani El-Bay |
Exhibition |
Malvern College |
| Natasha Riley |
Exhibition |
Malvern College |
| Kathryn Withnall |
Choral Exhibition |
Malvern College |
| Matthew Withnall |
Exhibition |
Malvern College |
| Katie Fryer |
Free Music Tuition |
Malvern College |
| Darcey Jones |
Free Music Tuiton |
Malvern College |
| Simon Macdonald |
Free Music Tuition |
Malvern College |
| Katie O'Rouke |
Free Music Tuition |
Malvern College |
| Daniel Spencer |
Free Music Tuition |
Malvern College |
| Amelia Wall |
Free Music Tuition |
Malvern College |
| Shi-Nan Zhang |
Free Music Tuition |
Malvern College |
The Recording Studio
A separate music studio provides students with rehearsing and recording facilities, set in a professional environment.
It is amazing how quickly the children can turn their ears to new ideas - we are never short of backing vocalists or instrumental ‘session’ players for the variety of recording projects undertaken.
Extra-curricular musical activites
Ensembles:
- Senior, Junior and Chamber Choir
- Jazz Band
- Orchestra
- String Group
- Pop Group
Practice
The department is available for pupil practice at the following times:-
Boarders
8.00 - 8.20
Day pupils
11.15 - 11.45
13.40 - 14.20
15.30 - 16.00
Extra Theory classes
These can be arranged through the Head of Music and are there to help pupils move on from Grade 5 to 6 in their chosen instrument.
Peripatetic Instrumental Lessons
The Music coordinator is responsible for producing the timetables to be filled in by the peripatetic instrumental staff and providing each form tutor with a weekly list of lesson times
Any pupil learning more than one instrument must have one lesson timetabled in break or lunchtime.
Year 8 pupils must not miss any academic lessons and therefore have their lessons timetabled during lunchtimes or breaks.
The department currently has 12 visiting instrumental teachers with lessons available on the following instruments:
• Violin/Cello/Double Bass
• Trumpet
• French Horn
• Singing
• Piano
• Clarinet
• Saxophone
• Oboe
• Flute/Fife/Recorder
• Drum Kit
• Guitar,Classical or Electric