Local music students given a unique opportunity to advance their composition skills
GCSE Music students from Hastings and Bexhill have been taking part in a series of music workshops – part of a unique initiative to give young musicians without access to instruments at home the chance to advance their music writing skills…
Each year Hastings plays host to Hastings International Piano competition, which has evolved from being part of the Hastings Music Festival to become an internationally renowned competition for young concert pianists from around the world.
Over the last two years, we have teamed up with local schools across Hastings and Bexhill to use the competition as a springboard to inspire and upskill talented local GCSE music students – many of whom don’t have access to their own instruments at home.
In a series of SLN funded, interactive workshops delivered by renowned cellist Matthew Sharp, over 45 GCSE music students were given the chance to gain a deeper understanding of composition techniques to support their enjoyment of, and attainment in, their GCSE Music course.
Packed with practical hints and tips, the workshops were designed to address one of the biggest challenges teachers of Music GCSE face; that of getting learners – and particularly those from non-musically trained backgrounds – to be confident in their composition skills.
Mrs Byrne, Head of Music at St Richard’s College, Bexhill commented: “Pupils were encouraged to be creative, try ideas and challenge themselves. All of my Year 10 pupils really enjoyed the process of composing in a large group and felt confident enough to try similar ideas in the next lesson. A wonderful workshop!”
All of the learners involved were coming out of a period with little or no live music activity and limited opportunities to perform. Many also came from homes without access to instruments, support with practice or opportunities to participate in live events.
Teachers were heavily involved in the workshop series, giving them a unique CPD opportunity and enabling them to be inspired by Matthew Sharp’s informal and innovative methods for unlocking creativity and self-belief.
Stephanie Carlo, Lead of Music, St Leonard’s Academy in Hastings, said: “I love that all of the students are put outside their comfort zone and given the tools to improve their confidence and skills. Can’t wait until the next one!”
Find out more about the project here.