Music

Music Rationale

At Anstey, we have no doubt that music plays a key role in brain development. This is because it helps with the nurturing of language, motor skills, emotional intelligence and collaboration skills, all of which are vital in supporting our children to become effective learners. Building a strong foundation will only help children as they move through our school and beyond.

The areas of our brains controlling musical ability and understanding language are very closely linked. Music enhances children’s ability to listen to and make sense of sounds, speak clearly and with appropriate volume and tone.

Memory skills are also greatly supported by studying music, for example when children memorize lyrics to sing songs by heart, as we do in our weekly Music Assemblies. This helps not only for the study of music in itself, but when recalling information and facts - using the earworm to the learner’s advantage! Many children also find the soothing effects of calm background music an aid to their concentration and focus.

When playing an instrument of any kind, children learn hand-eye co-ordination, as well as the practising how to work within a group or follow a leader. This is hugely beneficial in developing fine and gross motor skills which can then help the child with posture, pencil control, etc.

Music lessons provide a valuable opportunity for children to learn team work, when they collaborate to rehearse and perform, and share a sense of success. Together, they discuss, practise and learn new skills, which they are then proud of; this reinforces their self-confidence so encourages them to participate in future.

All in all, learning about music is a key element when providing children with a well-rounded education. At Anstey, music works in harmony with other subjects and areas of study, music helping children grow in self-esteem, build essential skills and prepare for bright futures.