This section outlines the breadth of the subject on which teachers should draw when teaching the key concepts and key processes.

The study of music should include:

a. performance activities in a range of contexts within and beyond the classroom
b. a range of live and recorded music from different times and cultures
c. a range of classical and popular traditions and current trends in music that reflect cultural diversity and a global dimension
d. staff notation and other relevant notations in a range of musical styles, genres and traditions
e. consideration of contextual influences that affect the way music is created, performed and heard
f. the use of music technologies to create, manipulate and refine sounds
g. the role of music and musicians in society, of the music industry and of artistic and intellectual property rights.

Explanatory notes

Performance activities in a range of contexts: For example, pupil concerts, public concerts, assemblies, rehearsals, formal and informal external events and online performance events.

A range of classical and popular traditions: This should include music from different national and cultural traditions, including the western classical tradition and, for example, folk, jazz, contemporary and 20th century popular music and music for film, television and the stage.

Staff notation: This should include gaining an understanding of, and using, traditional staff notation in a range of musical styles (including contemporary and popular music).

Other relevant notations: Other notations, where relevant to particular styles of music, could include graphic notation, tablature, chord symbols, notation for percussion instruments and lead sheets.

Contextual influences: These include historical, social, national or political contexts; the purpose of different types of music; the roles of performers, composers and audiences; and the influence of developments in technology.

Use of music technologies: This includes the use of ICT and music technologies to control and structure sound in performing and composing activities, and in developing pupils’ own ideas within and beyond the classroom.

Artistic and intellectual property rights: These include rights relating to pupils’ own work and the work of others.