We are incredibly lucky at Forest Fields to get instrument lessons in Year 4. All children learn an instrument from the string family (the violin, viola or cello). We also go over to the community centre and learn about the elements of music (pitch, rhythm, beat, dynamics and timbre) through singing, clapping and playing our instrument. Have a look at 4JA in action.
Some children are offered the opportunity to continue to learn their instrument in Year 5 and 6. They also get given the chance to go to Area Band on a Thursday and Music Camp (held for two days at the beginning of September) where they get to play in a huge group with musicians of a similar age who also learn an instrument in Nottingham.
Recorder club is held on a Monday lunchtime with Miss Speers and members of Year 6. If you happen to pop in, you will hear many different genres of music played; some you can tell are definitely their favourites!
Year 5 and 6 Choir meet on a Tuesday. Here they get to learn and perform a range of different songs. Sometimes they sing in unison, but they have recently been working really hard at learning to sing in two or three parts. The choir ensure that they are listening carefully to what others are singing as the only way you can really harmonise is through listening to all the other members of your choir. They have performed in assemblies and are hoping to take part in events outside of school very soon.
Just before Christmas, the Year 5/6 Choir and singers from Year 2 took part in the Hyson Green Light Switch on. We performed many Christmas songs and carols with other local schools. We were lucky enough to see Father Christmas at the event as we know it is a busy time of year for him!