Please see below for news about our summer programme of events and CPD. In particular please note programme details for our Surrey Schools Music Conference on 21 June, and be sure to book your ticketbefore the Early Bird Discount runs out on the 21 April!!

As always if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch SurreyArtsSchools@surreycc.gov.uk  We wish you a restful and enjoyable spring holiday!

John Stephens

Curriculum Manager Surrey Arts and Lead for Culture Box Surrey

– Surrey Music Hub Conference:  Programme Content announced

– Singing Picnics 2023

– Secondary School Young Leaders

– East SAYS let’s start singing our music!

– Just So Singers

– Together at Home

– MusicFirst Young Creative Musician Festival

– The Primary Singing Toolkit

– Music Mark: Ofsted Update on Schools

– CPD Training

– Royal Opera House Create and Sing

– Offered: Yamaha Electone Electric Organ

Surrey Music Hub Conference:  Programme Content 

Wednesday 21 June 2023, University of Surrey, Guildford

Surrey Music Hub Conference 2023 is focused on the theme of the new National Plan for Music.  We take the new music strategy’s aims to heart, working with all Surrey Schools to use the Power of Music to Change Lives.  There will be content for all specialist and non-specialist teachers from primary, secondary and special school settings, built around active workshops, forums, discussion groups and focused surgeries. Content will be delivered by leading national providers, alongside our own highly skilled music leaders from Surrey, please see below for further details.

There will be a parallel conference for our ‘youth delegates’ who will learn alongside teachers, take part in performances and reflect on what their music education means to them.

Keynote presentations will come from Prof. Nate Holder, and Christopher Stephens HMI. Nate holder is an advocate for inclusive and anti-racist approaches to music education, if you haven’t heard it before listen to his poem ‘If I were a racist’ . Christopher Stephens is Ofsted’s national lead for music. He has recently shared extremely useful thoughts and advice for teachers on areas such as assessment, mastery and OFSTED deep dives. We are delighted that he will be able to speak directly to our music teachers here in Surrey. Both keynotes will include opportunities for Q&A from delegates.

The conference will take place in the magnificent setting of the University of Surrey with lunch and refreshments provided throughout the day.   Please book your tickets via our eventbrite site here. Early bird tickets are available until Friday 21 April.  

Conference activities will include: 

Keynote and discussion: The Power of Music to Change Lives, Nate Holder (Professor and International Chair of Music Education at the Royal Northern College of Music)

Keynote and discussion: Christopher Stevens (HMI and OFSTED Subject Lead for music in schools)

Youth delegate programme: will take place in parallel with the main conference. Youth delegates will participate in workshops led by conference workshop leaders, and will interact with the main conference at key points during the day

Secondary Forum: Pathways into the music industry (secondary/P16 focus)

Primary Forum:  Network, case studies, issues and discussion

Forum:  Music in Special Schools and Alternative Settings

Workshop: Musical Futures led by Fran Hannan based on the work of Prof. Lucy Green on ‘How pop musicians learn’ and using online classroom resources (primary and secondary focused sessions).

Workshop: Royal Opera House Primary singing focus exploring storytelling and music through the Royal Opera House’s Create and Sing programme. 

Presentation: Music and Displaced Children and Young People, led by Jim Pinchen from Surrey Arts and Kayte Cable Big Leaf Foundation about joint projects to support children and young people living in Surrey after being displaced due to conflict and/or persecution.

Workshop: From the Classroom to the Cloud, case study from The Windsor Boy’s School about using Music First online resources to support the music curriculum (secondary and primary focused sessions).

Workshop: Inclusive school bands and ensembles, led by Tim Palmer (Trinity Laban and Animate Orchestra).

Workshop: Sing Up, looking at using improvisation in singing as a route into song writing; including vocal percussion/beat boxing within song arrangements) secondary singing focus but also of interest to UKS2.

Workshop: Simple & Effective Audio Recording Techniques for the Classroom led by staff from the University of Surrey Tonmeister course.

Workshop: Royal Opera House Exploring dramatic storytelling and music through ROH Create and Sing. This version of the workshop will focus on work with transition aged students at upper KS2/lower KS3. 

Plenary panel discussion, including student delegate performance.

Singing Picnics 2023

Singing Picnics are back for 2023 and places are filling up quickly and allocated on first-come-first-served basis. We only have places remaining at Runnymede on Wednesday 28 June or Lingfield on Tuesday 11 July, so if you’d like your year 3-5 children to join us for singing in the sunshine, take a look at our website for details of how to apply. 

Secondary School Young Leaders: We have places available at three of our Singing Picnics for secondary school Young Song Leaders to help lead younger children in singing games alongside our professional team of vocal tutors. For more information, contact Nancy Gillio-Terry, Vocal Strategy Manager at nancy.gillioterry@surreycc.gov.uk

East SAYS let’s start singing our music!

Surrey Arts has launched a new singing ensemble in Limpsfield, Oxted to give young people aged 8-13 years the opportunity to sing and perform with other enthusiastic singers. Surrey Arts Young Singers (SAYS) is a new singing experience, led by Hannah Carpenter, where students will learn to sing songs from Bach to Beyoncé, combining movement and song, singing all the music they love.  

Area Manager for the East, Yvette Madden says ‘We are really excited about this new singing group as it will give young people based in the east of the county a chance to experience a fun and dynamic singing group and combine music from different genres.  We have an amazing tutor and are looking forward to future performances.’ 

Come and join us in this new adventure under the guidance of our fantastic tutors! No experience is needed, just the love of singing and having fun.  

Age range: 8 – 13 years 

Venue: Hazelwood School, Wolfs Hill, Limpsfield, Oxted RH8 0QU 

Day and time: Saturdays 9am – 10.30am 

Cost: £7.70 a session.  (no extra cost for existing area ensemble members)

Register for East SAYS

Just So Singers

Just So Singers is for those young people who love to sing! Led by experienced conductor Caroline Pearce with assistant teacher Lucy Zirins.  We are an adaptable, welcoming, and wholly inclusive group for young people age 9-19 years in mainstream education, with additional needs and for those attending SEND schools.

Maybe you struggle to feel part of a group, or have additional needs which require a celebratory, friendly, empathetic environment? Well, this vocal ensemble is right for you! We aim to celebrate and bring out the best in each individual, whilst promoting awareness of how to be a ‘team player’ through singing together.

Just So Singers is so much more than a singalong; we build self-esteem by encouraging a ‘can do’ attitude. There is opportunity within our rehearsals to share verbally and vocally, but no pressure to do so if you are not feeling confident that day.  We sing a range of songs, including many well-known ‘pop’ songs. We encourage signing, movement to music and actions, as well as simple percussion parts.

You may read; if so there are the words available to all our songs. You may prefer to learn as you listen and respond in the sessions; that’s great too! You may join in with Makaton signing, BSL or movement to music and that’s very welcome too! Whatever is right for you we will take on board. We believe music is for everyone to enjoy in their own way.

There will be opportunities to sing in front of an audience and build on those team skills developed in sessions: to take turns; work together; listen to each other and understand some of the important performance skills which translate into life skills for

the future.

Age range: 9 – 19 years 

Venue: Philip Southcote School, Weybridge, Addlestone, KT15 2QH

Day and time: Wednesday 3.45-4.45pm

Register for Just So Singers

Together at Home

Together at Home is an inclusive music ensemble for young people aged 9 – 19 who attend Special Schools in Surrey. Whilst there are no specific entry requirements and no audition process, participants need to be comfortable making music with peers and interacting with tutors via Zoom.

Together at Home will be led by a small, yet awesome team of music teachers who are experienced in supporting young people with a wide range of learning needs. Participants will be able to sing, vocalise and play percussion. If you have access to a drum that’s fantastic but not crucial as we will be teaching body percussion and using objects from around the home (don’t worry, not breakable ones!).

Age range: 9 – 19 years 

Venue: Online

Day and time: Tuesdays 5-6pm

Register for Together at Home

MusicFirst Young Creative Musician Festival

For students between 11 and 18 years old.  The only UK school and college composition festival that celebrates ALL genres of music.  Whether your students are classically trained and play an instrument, talented rappers and singer-songwriters or have a keen ear for

mixing sounds to produce unique tracks, the MusicFirst Young Creative Musician Festival

gives your students a platform to share their talents.

Winning students receive a Focusrite studio kit and personalised message from YolanDa, and the school will also receive a license of Soundtrap for Education for one year. MusicFirst are also offering any school who takes part the option to sign up for an extended trial of Soundtrap to use for the duration of the competition, so their students have a DAW to work with.

This is a fantastic opportunity for students and a great project for teachers to get them involved in over the coming. Entries must be submitted by Friday 2 June.  For more information and to sign up, visit https://lp.musicfirst.co.uk/young-creative-musician-festival

The Primary Singing Toolkit is a free digital resource for primary music teachers, by the ISM Trust, in partnership with the Voices Foundation and supported by the Schools Music Association (SMA). Discover inspirational and practical singing strategies to enhance your music curriculum, and feel empowered to share the joy of singing with your students. 

Primary Singing Toolkit (ismtrust.org)

Music Mark: Ofsted Update on Schools  There is a recording now available of Music Mark’s presentation from Christopher Stevens HMI.  The presentation focuses on Ofsted ‘Deep Dives’ on music and should be of great interest to school music leaders.   You can find the recording and presentation slides here: 

Ofsted’s Deep Dives in Music | Music Mark

Early Years Singing 

Wednesday 19 April 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

Audience: EYFS & KS1

Session leader: Take Art

This session will provide an opportunity to develop your skills and confidence in delivering simple songs and instrumental work with very young children.  We will also look at ways of encouraging musical play, supporting it through adult interactions with children, and ways settings can celebrate children’s musical achievements.

Participants will:

·        Gain skills in learning a few appropriate rhymes and simple songs to develop very young children’s musicality 

·        Develop skills to notice and support very young children’s music-making in all areas of your setting

·        Watch and discuss young children’s spontaneous music making and look at ways adults might play creatively with them 

Discuss theoretical information to inform and support our practice, with a brief over-view of musical development of very young children and the benefits of music making in the early years.

Sign up via our CPD events form

Primary Music Network

Wednesday 26 April 16.00-17.30 via Zoom

Audience: Primary 

Session leader: Alex Bondonno

For all primary music teachers and music leaders in Surrey schools to discuss practical ways to provide a music provision in their school. We invite primary schools to present case studies and facilitate discussion on the current challenges, needs and seek to find solutions. This session will include a case study from St Nicholas Primary about First Start Music. We will also be looking at the new ISM and Voices Foundation Primary Singing Resources. Full agenda will be confirmed near the time. Send and points you would like discussed or case study ideas to alex.bondonno@surreycc.gov.uk.

Sign up via our CPD events form

An Inclusive Approach to Teenage Vocal Change

Thursday 4 May 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

Audience: Primary and Secondary

Session leader: Suzanne Chadwick

Growth spurts during puberty bring about a period of extraordinary physical growth for both girls and boys which has a dramatic effect in boys’ voices. Girls’ voices also undergo a period of more subtle, but often noticeable, change. Teenagers find that their singing range completely alters and their voice becomes unpredictable, leading to frustration, self-consciousness and ultimately a lack of confidence and reluctance to sing. 

This workshop will provide participants with a clear explanation of the effects of pubertal growth on both boys’ and girls’ voices and the vocal difficulties that are frequently faced by teenagers and those undergoing hormonal change. It will also outline a number of practical strategies and approaches in order to equip teachers and choir directors with ideas for creating an inclusive approach that aims to encourage young people to continue to engage with singing.

Suzanne Chadwick, MA (Music), MA (Voice Pedagogy), is a graduate of the University of St Andrews and the University of Wales Trinity St David. Suzanne is a passionate educator of young singers and combines her many years of performing and teaching experience with an active engagement in voice science and research. She is currently completing a PhD on the subject of the adolescent male voice, and also includes vocal registers, breathing methodology and vocal health in her research interests. Sign up via our CPD events form

Create and Sing CPD Workshops

Thursday 27 April 16.00–17.30 (online)

Tuesday 23 May 13.00–16.00 (in-person)

Audience: Primary School Teachers

Session Leaders: Royal Opera House artists

Create and Sing from the Royal Opera House is coming to Surrey with a NEW and FREE offer for schools to take part in! No previous experience of music or drama is needed for teachers to take part. 

Made specifically for primary school teachers, as part of the Royal Opera House National Schools Program (roh.org.uk), it combines: 

• Practical CPD training – designed to build your creative confidence to facilitate learning through the arts. 
• High quality, National Curriculum-linked learning resources – offering detailed and flexible schemes of work. 
• Termly live and interactive digital events – which connect your classes directly to the artists of the Royal Opera Company. 

You can take part in our practical teacher training in two-parts:

Part 1 online: Thursday 27 April 16.00–17.30 book your FREE place here

Part 2 at Furzefield Primary School, Merstham, Redhill RH1 3PA: Tuesday 23 May 13.00–16.00 book your FREE place here

Alternative Part 2 Session. We will be offering an alternative in-person session in the Autumn Term for teachers who can’t make our May date!  Register your interest via our CPD events form and watch this space!

Once you have completed the Create and Sing CPD training, you are invited to use the resources with your class in the way that best suits you.

Easy to deliver across a half term.  Once your training is complete you will receive termly invites to optional interactive digital workshops, led by Royal Opera House artists, which bookend an optional and flexible 5 lesson scheme of work. Find out more on our website.  

An Introduction to Music and Makaton

Wednesday 24 May 16.00-17.00 via Zoom

Audience: Special schools, music teachers working in SEN settings

Session leader: Jane Allen

This session is aimed at teachers who work using music as a tool to support Children and Young People with Special Needs and Disabilities. During the session the trainer will explore the role of Makaton to support participant’s musical development and inclusion as well as sharing some useful signs and symbols that can be put straight into practice.

Sign up via our CPD events form

Available: Electone Yamaha Electric Organ

Following the relocation of Surrey County Council, this Electone Yamaha Electric Organ was removed from the decommissioned County Hall and now needs a new home.

If anyone knows of anywhere it could be useful, please email Paula.Camp@Surreycc.gov.uk.

Dear colleague,

We are delighted to be sending you our first newsletter of this academic year, and we send it with very best wishes to all Surrey teachers for the coming year in school. Below you will find news and information about opportunities for schools, including an exciting programme of CPD for the autumn term, delivered both by Surrey Arts and by external provider organisations.

As you will be aware, the new National Plan for Music Education was announced by the DFE just before the summer. This will be an important focus for Surrey Music Hub and Surrey Arts during the coming year and will be an important topic for discussion at the Primary Music Network, and also at Music Mark’s OFSTED Update on Music in Schools. Other CPD this term includes a variety of practical workshops, both online and face-to-face, covering various aspects of music making in primary schools, an introduction to the latest version of Charanga’s Musical School, and a session on whole class teaching using GarageBand. Please see below for full details.

We are also pleased to remind schools about our Wardrobe Hire where you can find an amazing range of costumes for your productions, workshops and projects, see below for full details.

Finally, to help us provide the best possible service to schools, please note our request regarding signing up to CPD sessions, and also do let us know if your school would be interested in being a host school for one of our CPD sessions.

Kind regards,

John Stephens

Curriculum Manager Surrey Arts and Lead for Culture Box Surrey

National Plan for Music Resources

Open Ensemble Rehearsals Week

Primary Music Festival 2023 Dates

Music Mark Membership for schools

Wardrobe News

Baroque Sessions from The Benedetti Foundation

CPD Events

New Music Plan Resources

Music Mark have collated resources on the new National Plan for Music Education from many different sources.  This can be found on their website:  https://www.musicmark.org.uk/resources/national-plan-for-music-education-2022-the-power-of-music-to-change-lives/  

We will be discussing the impacts of the new plan at the Primary Music Network on Wednesday 21 September.  In the meantime, a very good summary of the impact for schools can be found at The Music Teachers Association website:  https://www.musicteachers.org/npme/

Surrey Arts Open Ensemble Rehearsals Week 17-23 September 

Surrey Arts provides over 40 different choirs, bands, orchestras and music groups across the county, for all ages and abilities.  Our Open Rehearsals Week gives young people of all abilities the opportunity to come and try an ensemble, for free.  The aim of this week is to encourage young musicians to play a musical instrument of their choice in a setting that’s best for them.  Playing an instrument has many benefits; including helping to boost or aid development, as well as providing the opportunity to have fun and make new friends.

For more information on area specific ensembles across Surrey, please visit: https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/culture-and-leisure/arts/music/

Primary Music Festival 2023 dates

We were delighted to welcome schools back for the Primary Music Festival season in 2022 and have now confirmed the following dates for the 2023 season. Applications will open shortly! 

Date	Area	Venue
Monday 24 April	Mole Valley	Dorking Halls
Wednesday 26 April	Woking & North Surrey	Dorking Halls
Thursday 11 May	South East Surrey	Dorking Halls
Monday 15 May	East Surrey	Dorking Halls
Tuesday 16 May	Elmbridge	Dorking Halls
Thursday 25 May	West Surrey	Princes Hall
Wednesday 14 June	Mid-Surrey	Dorking Halls
Thursday 15 June	Epsom & Ewell	Dorking Halls
Tuesday 20 June	Surrey Borders	Dorking Halls

Keep an eye on your email for details of how to apply for your school to take part. To make sure you’re on our Primary Music Festival mailing list, email paula.camp@surreycc.gov.uk or becca.jones@surreycc.gov.uk

Music Mark Membership for Schools

Surrey arts is able to offer all schools in Surrey free membership of Music Mark,  the UK’s subject association for music education.   Music Mark membership can offer your school opportunities for training and networking, as well as useful resources.  You can find out more here.  

In order to apply for membership please complete this form.   To be granted membership we ask you to write a short statement which addresses the Music Mark membership criteria, and shows:

• evidence of a willingness to engage in developmental conversations related to improving music provision, including with the Music Hub

• recognition of the value of music education as part of a broad and balanced curriculum

• a strategy for music in place which provides for all children

• evidence of engagement with Surrey Music Hub

Applications should be made with the support of the school’s headteacher.

Wardrobe News

Wardrobe is raring to go and looking forward to welcoming you back for the Autumn term, which is traditionally our busiest period.  Surrey Arts Wardrobe provides theatrical costume hire and educational resource for schools, drama groups and industry professionals; offering a unique collection of thousands of items of costume, vintage clothing and accessories to bring your shows, productions and events to life.  

Browse our wardrobe!  If you haven’t been to our Wardrobe for a while, or are new to our service, we encourage you to book a ‘prep’ appointment to come and explore our vast stock and discuss your aspirations for your next school production or topic workshop.

Costumes can be reserved for up to six weeks before your hire date and we operate an appointment only system for pick-ups and drop offs.  If you are a regular hire customer, you could benefit from our membership programme, which includes 15% off our listed prices and a free ‘borrow’ week for fittings but membership is no longer compulsory for invoiced hire.

As accessories make a look more believable, we have reduced the prices on many of our accessories to help you complete outfits at an affordable price.  You can find an up-to-date price guide and contact details on our website www.surreyartswardrobe.org.uk

Baroque Sessions from The Benedetti Foundation

The Benedetti Foundation is delighted to present a new edition of the Baroque Virtual Sessions. Taking place between 26 September and 2 October, we will be joined by internationally acclaimed Baroque Specialists including: Rachel Podger (violin), David Watkin (cello), Leo Duarte (oboe), Liz Kenny (lute), Steven Devine (harpsichord), Ursula Paludan Monberg (horn). 

From 26-30 September, we will be releasing a series of short films exploring a range of baroque concepts. We hope these will be particularly of interest to students studying baroque as part of their exam-based music courses, and teachers can access this resource free of charge.  They will be added to our existing Discover Baroque video resources.

On the weekend of 1-2 October, each baroque specialist will lead a live 1-hour session exploring the baroque era through the eyes of their instrument / family of instruments. These sessions are open to all ages, all instruments, all levels and they will be recorded and made available to all registered participants for 3 months.

Full information and the registration form can be found here. There is a registration fee of £15 to cover costs, and full bursaries available to anyone (just tick the box on the form). The closing date to register to join in the live weekend is 30 September. 

Schools who wish to register to receive the resources and access to the recorded sessions can do so free of charge by entering a lead teacher’s information.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact info@benedettifoundation.org

Booking CPD sessions

It is important for us to have a good idea of who is attending our CPD sessions, so that we know they are viable, and can prepare according to the group size we are expecting.  

We would ask for your assistance and only sign up via the Autumn CPD events form for those sessions you intend to attend, and please let us know as early as possible if you will not be joining a session for any reason. 

Primary Music Network 

Wednesday 21 September 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

A session for all primary music teachers and music leaders in Surrey schools to discuss practical ways to provide a music provision in their school.  We invite primary schools to present case studies and facilitate discussion on the current challenges, needs and seek to find solutions.  This session will include a vocal warm up from Cole Bendall and presentation from ABRSM on their 200 pieces digital resources.  We will be using the session to have a detailed discussion around the New Music Plan and its implications for your schools.  

Full Agenda will be confirmed nearer the time.  Send points you would like discussed to alex.bondonno@surreycc.gov.uk

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

New Music Coordinators Workshop

Wednesday 28 September 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

New to being a music coordinator? Want practical ideas on how to take on this role at your school? Perhaps you have been in the role for a while, but would like more support and ideas? Whether you are a musician or not, taking on the challenge of leading music at a school can be a daunting task, but highly rewarding! Led by Alex Bondonno (Surrey Arts) and Kate Sweeney (St John’s Primary), this workshop will give you practical ideas on how to be an effective music leader for your school, looking at curriculum, instrumental uptake, choirs and ensembles and just getting music happening in your school.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

Inclusive drum circles and body percussion workshop

Saturday 1 October 11.00-12.00 at The Bridge Youth Centre, Leatherhead, KT22 7RB

Led by Ollie Tunmer from Beat Goes On, this free, bite size workshop will equip participants with new skills and activities to imbed within their practice. The workshop is aimed at music teachers who have already had some experience of incorporating percussion and movement within their sessions with young people and are interested in developing their inclusive practice.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

Start Your Choir!

Wednesday 5 October 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

Start your choir: how to teach a song, find diverse material and lead primary school children in singing. If you’re new to leading singing in your school or just want some fresh ideas to help energise your primary school choir, this is the session for you! Learn some new techniques, explore new songs, and come away with some practical materials that you can put to use right away with your children using tried and true teaching methods. Led by Ula Weber (Sing for Pleasure, National Teachers’ Choir, Ex Cathedra), this is a great confidence booster for the new year!

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

Music with a focus on rhythm in EYFS and KS1:  Stephen Grocott

Tuesday 11 October 16.00-17.30 in Person, Location TBC 

This practical workshop is full of material and ideas to enhance learning, performance and creativity. It will focus on the rhythmic elements in music and their connection with movement, language and mathematics and participants will learn: 

•        New highly enjoyable and memorable songs and rhymes that can make the basis of music teaching and contribute to sociable mat times 

•        Ways of using this material with a focus on finding and making rhythm patterns with and without percussion instruments 

•        How rhythm work connects with mathematical thinking and language acquisition as well as addressing each part of the revised EYFS statutory framework 

•        How to move from improvising with rhythm to the beginnings of composition with or without instruments and including tuned percussion 

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

Teaching Rhythm in the KS2 Classroom

Tuesday 18 October 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

Rhythm is a fundamental skill that is the foundation for all musical performance.   Alex Bondonno leads a practical workshop giving ideas on how to teach and embed rhythmic skills for all your pupils allowing them to grow into aspiring young musicians.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

SMH Inclusion Networking Event

Tuesday 1 November 14.00-16.00 via Zoom

An opportunity to hear about music opportunities for vulnerable children and young people as well as make connections, find solutions and discuss the topics that are currently important to attendees.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

The Role of Play in Children’s Musical Learning and Singing

Thursday 3 November 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

Singing doesn’t always have to take place in the choir! Establishing a culture of singing-play in your classroom is easier than you might think and can have significant benefits on your classroom community and each individual child’s wellbeing, vocal and musical development, and personal and social skills. This session led by Ex Cathedra’s Rebecca Ledgard will leave you with lots of activities to enjoy doing with your children. Rebecca has worked as Ex Cathedra’s Director of Education and Participation since 2000 and has led Singing Playgrounds and other significant projects across the UK and internationally. She was bestowed with honorary membership for the services to music education by Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

Voices Foundation: Choral Excellence

Thursday 10 November 16.00-17.30 at Chertsey High School, Addlestone KT15 2EP

A session to help develop the choral leadership skills of teachers/MEH staff to lead high quality, whole school singing and choir sessions. This session is appropriate for new choir leaders or more experienced leaders who would like to further develop their leading skills. It makes a good follow-on session from our October “Start Your Choir!” workshop.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

Introduction to Charanga Musical School 

Monday 14 November 16.00-17.30 at Salesian School, Chertsey, KT16 9LU

A face to face training session for Surrey schools who are new to, or want to discover more, about the Original Charanga Scheme.  Led by Timothy Bond.

To attend this in person CPD session, register here

Introducing the Music of the 2023 Primary Festival Concerts – workshop 1

Tuesday 15 November 15.45-17.00 via Zoom

The Surrey Primary Festival concerts are back! Come along to this online workshop with conductor Cole Bendall as an introduction to Teresa Jennings’ “Positive” and some of the other music to be included in the 2023 Primary Festival concerts. This is a good way to have a first listen to the songs your children will be singing and to get some ideas for ways to teach the music in your school. A follow-on workshop with more teaching tips will be offered in January.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

GarageBand class teaching for KS2

Tuesday 22 November 16.00 -17.00 at Surrey Arts, 14 The Pines, Guildford, GU3 3BH

A workshop exploring teaching years 5 & 6 how to compose using GarageBand. This session, with our Digital Music Lead, James Crompton, will provide lesson ideas for teaching full classes to create their own musical projects; teach students how to make voice collages & sonic art, video game themes, raps & vocals, rock & pop and dance music. GarageBand is easy to use, and notes are available with lesson ideas, learning objectives and studio tips. The workshop would suit both class teachers and music specialists looking to get their pupils exploring and creating their own music digitally.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

Charanga and the Model Music Curriculum 

Monday 5 December 16:00-17:00 via Zoom

Please note change of date due to National Bank Holiday

Surrey Arts and Charanga warmly invite you to this high-level overview looking at the structure of the Charanga units, the range of learning activities and supporting documentation.  Led by Timothy Bond.

To attend this online CPD session, register here

External CPD spotlight

Below we highlight some free music workshops by other providers, that may be of interest 

KS1 & KS2 focused interactive workshop from the Royal Opera House

Tuesday 4 October, 14.00-15.00, via Teams

This LIVE workshop invites schools to join ROH music and drama practitioners as they rehearse and lead participants through a culmination performance; followed by a special opportunity to meet an opera singer.

Register your class and/or school by Friday 30 September, to take part in this pilot study for ‘What is Opera?’ as the ROH explore how to best support school communities in providing access to the Royal Opera House.  If you have any questions, please contact createandsing@roh.org.uk

Music Mark Event:  OFSTED Update on Music in Schools

Wednesday 5 October, 16.00-17.15 (online) 

Ofsted’s HMI National Lead for music, Christopher Stevens will discuss effective assessment in music and includes 15 minutes for questions.

Signup for this Music Mark Event

Dear colleague,

Greetings from all our colleagues at Surrey Arts and very best wishes for the coming half –term and for your preparations for seasonal performance events at the end of term.

Please see below our second newsletter for this term, with details of a wide range of events and courses of interest to all who are interested in developing opportunities for music in Surrey schools.

As always if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch SurreyArtsSchools@surreycc.gov.uk.

Kind regards,

John Stephens

Curriculum Manager Surrey Arts and Lead for Culture Box Surrey

2023 Primary Music Festival – last places remaining!

Online music theory class, free trial

NEW Picks ‘n’ Stix, free trial

Ofsted:  An Update on Music in Schools

ABRSM Classroom 200

Music Mark Membership for Schools

Up! Orchestra

CPD Events

External CPD spotlight

Vacancy

2023 Primary Music Festival – last places remaining!

The 2023 Primary Music Festival concerts are filling up quickly and several dates are already full.  Space remains at our Dorking Halls concerts on the following dates 26 April, 11 & 15 May, 14, 15 & 20 June.  Get in touch now if you’d like your school to take part!

Your registration gives you access to all the music you will need and some helpful online learning resources to help you prepare your children in learning the music. Specialised CPD is also available to teachers. The concerts are a great way for children to sing with other schools in one of Surrey’s top venues, along with a professional backing band. Email becca.jones@surreycc.gov.uk to request an application form for your preferred date. 

Group online music theory class, free trial

Surrey Arts are expanding their ABRSM Grade 5 music theory online group classes and now offering individual online theory lesson for ABRSM Grades 1-3 or 6-8. 

The lessons cost £9.50 per session for a 45minute online group lesson or £21.50 per session for a 30 minute online individual lesson.

Parents and carers of any student grade 3 or above can apply for a free 45 minute online ABRSM Grade 5 group theory trial lesson on Thursday 10 November at 5pm.

NEW Picks ‘n’ Stix, free trial

Offering students of all abilities, from year one and above, the chance to try a wide range of contemporary instruments, learning together, as a group of 3 or more students.  Instruments include guitar, drums, keyboards, bass guitar and ukulele – try each instrument or focus on your favourite.

Cost: £8.60 per lesson

Day and time: Thursdays from 4pm

Venue: Woking Youth Arts Centre, Trinity Road, GU21 2SY

Parents and carers can apply for a free Picks ‘n’ Stix trial lesson on Thursday 10 November at 4pm for school years 1 to 3 and 5pm for years 4 to 6.  .

Ofsted:  An Update on Music in Schools

In this recording of this Music Mark session, Ofsted’s Christopher Stevens, HMI National Lead for music, presents their latest thinking on effective assessment of music in schools. Christopher’s presentation, touching on different types and regularity of assessment, is followed by a period of Q&A covering a variety of topics raised by attendees.  

Please find the recording of the session along with presentation slides on this link: 

Ofsted: An Update on Music in Schools | Music Mark

ABRSM Classroom 200

Classroom 200 is a free online resource for school teachers working with students up to the age of 14.  Featuring 200 recordings of inspiring music in a range of styles, plus accompanying lesson plans, Classroom 200 is all about bringing music to life in the classroom.  

Lessons can be filtered by age, musical element or classroom layout.  Each lesson plan contains a learning objective, key terminology, resources needed, ideas for whole class learning, small group activities and ‘support and challenge’ suggestions.

To access this fantastic free resource, visit www.classroom200.org

Music Mark Membership for Schools

Surrey Arts continues to offer all schools in Surrey free membership of Music Mark, the UK’s subject association for music education.  Music Mark membership can offer your school opportunities for training and networking, as well as useful resources.  You can find out more here.  

In order to apply for membership please complete this form.  To be granted membership we ask you to write a short statement which addresses the Music Mark membership criteria, and shows:

• evidence of a willingness to engage in developmental conversations related to improving music provision, including with the Music Hub
• recognition of the value of music education as part of a broad and balanced curriculum
• a strategy for music in place which provides for all children

•        evidence of engagement with Surrey Music Hub

Applications should be made with the support of the school’s headteacher.

UP! Orchestra is a free inclusive orchestra for experienced musicians, complete beginners and anyone in between.  This award-winning ensemble is designed to be accessible for young people aged 13+ of all abilities, including those with special educational needs.  We are particularly interested in welcoming Looked After Children, children from diverse backgrounds and any young people who have found it difficult to access music because of their life circumstances.  Equally, if you’re a young person who just loves to make new music in a fun and creative way then we’d love to hear from you also. Best of all, there is no audition process and it’s totally free to attend!

UP! Orchestra is led by an awesome team of professional musicians whose aim is to ensure each participant has a meaningful musical and dance experience regardless of ability, musical interest, vocal style or instrument. The team is experienced in supporting young people in mainstream settings as well as those who have mental health, disability, behavioural, ESL (English as a second language) needs and young people from diverse cultural backgrounds. 

During the Saturday morning music sessions, the young people will be taking part in a range of fun and fulfilling music activities. The theme this term is Pop Music! UP! Orchestra warmly welcomes new members to apply online or contact Lucy.Zirins@surreycc.gov.uk for further information.

The Role of Play in Children’s Musical Learning and Singing

Thursday 3 November 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

Singing doesn’t always have to take place in the choir! Establishing a culture of singing-play in your classroom is easier than you might think and can have significant benefits on your classroom community and each individual child’s wellbeing, vocal and musical development, and personal and social skills. This session led by Ex Cathedra’s ), Rebecca Ledgard will leave you with lots of activities to enjoy doing with your children. Rebecca has worked as Ex Cathedra’s Director of Education and Participation since 2000 and has led Singing Playgrounds and other significant projects across the UK and internationally. She was bestowed with honorary membership for the services to music education by Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

Voices Foundation: Choral Excellence

Thursday 10 November 16.00-17.30 at Chertsey High School, Addlestone KT15 2EP

A Voices Foundation session to help develop the choral leadership skills of teachers/MEH staff to lead high quality, whole school singing and choir sessions. This session is appropriate for new choir leaders or more experienced leaders who would like to further develop their leading skills. It makes a good follow-on session from our October “Start Your Choir!” workshop.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

Introduction to Charanga Musical School 

Monday 14 November 16.00-17.30 at Salesian School, Chertsey, KT16 9LU

A face to face training session for Surrey schools who are new to, or want to discover more, about the Original Charanga Scheme.  Led by Timothy Bond.

To attend this in person CPD session, register here

Introducing the Music of the 2023 Primary Festival Concerts – workshop 1

Tuesday 15 November 15.45-17.00 via Zoom

The Surrey Primary Festival concerts are back! Come along to this online workshop with conductor Cole Bendall as an introduction to Teresa Jennings’ “Positive” and some of the other music to be included in the 2023 Primary Festival concerts. This is a good way to have a first listen to the songs your children will be singing and to get some ideas for ways to teach the music in your school. A follow-on workshop with more teaching tips will be offered in January.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

SMH Inclusion Networking Event

Wednesday 16 November 14.00-16.00 via Zoom

An opportunity to hear about music opportunities for vulnerable children and young people as well as make connections, find solutions and discuss the topics that are currently important to attendees.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

GarageBand class teaching for KS2

Tuesday 22 November 16.00 -17.00 at Surrey Arts, 14 The Pines, Guildford, GU3 3BH

A workshop exploring teaching years 5 & 6 how to compose using GarageBand. This session, with our Digital Music Lead, James Crompton, will provide lesson ideas for teaching full classes to create their own musical projects; teach students how to make voice collages & sonic art, video game themes, raps & vocals, rock & pop and dance music. GarageBand is easy to use, and notes are available with lesson ideas, learning objectives and studio tips. The workshop would suit both class teachers and music specialists looking to get their pupils exploring and creating their own music digitally.

Sign up via the Autumn CPD events form

Part Singing for Your Choir

Thursday 24 November 17.00-18.30 at Cranleigh School, Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, GU6 8QQ

A workshop hosted by Cole Bendall, for teachers who want to develop their choir’s skills in singing in 2 or more parts. This practical workshop will explore ways in which to introduce part singing, rehearsal techniques, and real-world examples from music submitted by teachers. Learn methods you can put to use straight away in preparing your holiday concerts!

Charanga and the Model Music Curriculum 

Monday 5 December 16:00-17:00 via Zoom

Please note change of date due to National Bank Holiday

Surrey Arts and Charanga warmly invite you to this high-level overview looking at the structure of the Charanga units, the range of learning activities and supporting documentation.  Led by Timothy Bond.

To attend this online CPD session, register here

External CPD spotlight

Below we highlight some free music workshops by other providers, that may be of interest 

Inspire-Works free online djembe leader training

Wednesday 9th November 5:30pm-6:30pm (GMT)

Fully interactive session via Zoom – bring a hand-drum (e.g. djembe) to brush up on your technique! 

Using Inspire-Works’ model of workshop facilitating as a starting point, participants will have the opportunity to:

Learn:

• new djembe facilitation skills for whole-class teaching
• the roles of the djembe, dununs, bells and talking drums within a typical Senegalese ensemble and what classroom percussion instruments are suitable substitutions
• how to use differentiation in a whole-class environment with different age groups.

Engage:

• in practical music-making activities to help enhance your own teaching
• in discussions with other like-minded facilitators/teachers.

Develop:

• techniques for teaching djembe in the classroom
• an understanding of appropriate West African music and pedagogy for different age groups.

Register in advance for this meeting: here

Can’t make the session?! No problem – sign up and we’ll send you the recording!

Full details about the videos and resources that accompany this free training are here: https://www.inspire-works.com

Kapow Music Blog:  How to teach music even if you aren’t musical

Some useful tips here which some teachers may find helpful:  link here.

Vacancy

Surrey Arts are recruiting for new instrumental music teachers

https://www.surreycc.gov.uk/jobs/search/details?id=28146.

All the available vacancy details are currently in a separate attachment, ‘Instrumental Music Teacher Vacancies’ underneath the advertisement 

We have opportunities throughout Surrey – please share far and wide.

Dear colleague,

Greetings from all at Surrey Arts. By the time you read this your school Christmas events will likely be either in full swing, or finished, and then you will be looking forward to a well-earned break. When you are fully recovered, please take a moment to have a look at our newsletter below, and the range of CPD and other opportunities we are offering during the first half of next term and beyond.

As always if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch SurreyArtsSchools@surreycc.gov.uk.

Wishing you the very best for the holiday season and for 2023;

John Stephens

Curriculum Manager Surrey Arts and Lead for Culture Box Surrey

Surrey Music Hub Conference:  Save The Date!

Surrey Primary Music Skill Swap

The orchestra of Unlimited Potential (UP!)

Group online music theory class, free trial

Picks ‘n’ Stix

Singing Picnics 2023 – Watch This Space!

Financial help for instrumental & singing lessons

CPD Training

Opportunities with external partners

Surrey Music Hub Conference:  Save The Date!

We are very excited to be able to announce that Surrey Arts will be hosting the Surrey Music Hub Conference again in 2023.  The event will be taking place on Wednesday 21 June, at the University of Surrey, Guildford.  We can look forward to a daylong event, jam packed with inspirational ideas for teaching at your school, practical workshops and challenging workshop sessions.  The day will include sessions for all school age groups, mainstream and specialist settings.  We will share details on how to book very soon.

Surrey Primary Music Skill Swap

In recent months we have had requests from teachers and from our Primary Music Advisory Group to help facilitate networking and skill sharing between teachers in their localities.  

In order to help this take place we have set up the Surrey Primary Music Skill Swap.  This is a simple, but open-ended survey form which you can complete on line.  You can use it to note any specific music expertise or experience that you might be willing to share, as well as outlining knowledge you would be interested in finding out more about.  You can also indicate if you would like to join another teacher for general reflection / co-observation etc…

The survey is open now and can found here.  Completing the survey should only take a few minutes.  We hope to share the results of the survey with all participating teachers early in the New Year.  We hope this new tool will help to build up strong links between school music leaders and enable you to build and share skills more effectively.  

The orchestra of Unlimited Potential (UP!)

What Is “UP!”? UP! Orchestra is an award winning ensemble designed to be accessible for young people aged 13+ of all backgrounds and abilities including those with special educational needs. We are particularly interested in welcoming young people who have been unable to access music education because of their life circumstances and lack of suitable opportunities on offer locally. Whilst there are no specific entry requirements and no audition process we feel that the ensemble is not currently suitable for PMLD/SLD young people. Please do contact us to discuss this if you are unsure.

What happens at the sessions? – UP! is led by an awesome team of professional musicians whose aim is to ensure each participant has a meaningful musical experience regardless of ability, musical interest, vocal style or instrument. The team is experienced in supporting young people in mainstream settings as well as those who have mental health, disability, behavioural, ESL (English as a second language) needs and young people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Saturdays, 11.00-13.00 at the Bridge Youth Centre, Leatherhead on 21 January, 4 & 18 February and 4 & 18 March, with a gala concert 26 March.  UP! Orchestra warmly welcomes new members to apply online or contact Lucy.Zirins@surreycc.gov.uk for further information.

Group online music theory class, free trial

Surrey Arts have expanded their ABRSM Grade 5 music theory online group classes, with four classes a week, starting in Spring 2023.  These sessions could be particularly helpful in supporting secondary GCSE students and cost £9.50 per a 45minute online group lesson.

Parents and carers of any student grade 3 or above can apply for a free 45 minute online ABRSM Grade 5 group theory trial lesson on Thursday 9 February 17.00-17.45.

Picks ‘n’ Stix

Offers students of all abilities, from year one to six, the chance to try a wide range of contemporary instruments, include guitar, drums, keyboards, bass guitar and ukulele.  Learning together, as a group of 3 or more, students can try each instrument or focus on their favourite.

Sessions at Woking Youth Arts Centre, Trinity Road, GU21 2SY on Thursdays, at 4pm for school years 1-3 and 5pm for years 4-6, costing £8.60 per lesson.  Parents and carers can apply for Picks ‘n’ Stix here. 

Singing Picnics 2023 – Watch This Space!

Keep your eyes on your mailboxes because we will soon be sending “Save the Date” emails announcing the dates for the 2023 Singing Picnics to be held in June and July in beautiful outdoor spaces across the county!

If you haven’t yet joined us for a fun-filled and informal day of singing in the sunshine, please make sure we have your up-to-date contact details and get your application to us early before places are filled.

Financial help for instrumental & singing lessons

The Cheryl King Trust has funds available to finance 50%-75% of the cost of music lessons for Surrey children who would otherwise be unable to start or continue to learn because of financially challenging circumstances.  The trust will cover activities by pupils who do not qualify for free school meals but whose joint annual parental income is less than £33,000 per annum. It will also fund activities going beyond those covered by state funding for students who are eligible for free school meals. You can apply for this support through Surrey Arts.

To find out more, go to the Trust’s website at www.cherylkingtrust.org.uk   

Primary Music Network

Wednesday 18 January 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

Audience all primary teachers, both specialist and non-specialist

Session leader: Alex Bondonno

Session will discuss practical ways to provide a music provision in your school. We invite primary schools to present case studies and facilitate discussion on the current challenges, needs and seek to find solutions. This session will share work from our Primary Advisory Schools, including case studies on: Instrumental Curriculum Design at Danetree School, and Approaches to Primary Composition at Bisley School.  Also at the meeting there will be a focussed look at the new Surrey Primary Music Curriculum Evaluation Tool, which we hope to roll out to schools in January. Full agenda will be confirmed near the time. Send any points you would like discussed or case study ideas to alex.bondonno@surreycc.gov.uk

Sign up via the Spring CPD events form

Introducing the Music of the 2023 Primary Festival Concerts – workshop 2

Monday 23 January 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

Audience: Participating Primary Festival Schools

Session Leader:  Cole Bendall

The Surrey Primary Festival concerts are back! Come along to this online workshop with conductor Cole Bendall as an introduction to Teresa Jennings’ “Positive” and some of the other music to be included in the 2023 Primary Festival concerts.  A useful session for those who are new to this year’s music and also teachers who’ve started to prepare but would like more ideas for their rehearsals. 

Note this is an exact repeat of the session held on 15 November 2022

Sign up via the Spring CPD events form

Early Years Singing 

Wednesday 1 February 15.45-17.15 via Zoom

Audience: EYFS & KS1

Session Leader: Take Art

This session will provide an opportunity to develop your skills and confidence in delivering simple songs and instrumental work with very young children.  We will also look at ways of encouraging musical play, supporting it through adult interactions with children, and ways settings can celebrate children’s musical achievements.

Participants will:

·        Gain skills in learning a few appropriate rhymes and simple songs to develop very young children’s musicality 

·        Develop skills to notice and support very young children’s music-making in all areas of your setting

·        Watch and discuss young children’s spontaneous music making and look at ways adults might play creatively with them 

·        Discuss theoretical information to inform and support our practice, with a brief over-view of musical development of very young children and the benefits of music making in the early years

Sign up via the Spring CPD events form

Creating High Quality Music in Mixed Ability Settings

Saturday 4 February 14.00-17.00 at The Bridge Youth Centre, Clare Crescent, Leatherhead, KT22 7RB

Audience: Music practitioners working in schools and other settings wanting to develop inclusive music practice, KS2 – KS4

Session Leader: Joe Broughton

During this interactive training, participants will learn techniques and musical activities in order to support children and young people to participate and create music they feel proud of regardless of their current musical ability. Attendees will also develop a deeper understanding of the importance of creativity and improvisation as tools for inclusion and equality in mixed abilities settings. 

Sign up via the Spring CPD events form

How to teach music for non-musicians

Monday 6 February 16-00-17.30 Venue TBC (Mole Valley)

Audience: Non specialist primary teachers

Session Leader: Alex Bondonno

How do you teach music if you think you aren’t musical, or don’t have any training?  This session, is aimed at primary non-specialist music teachers and will provide you with practical ideas on how to teach music in the classroom.  We will cover basic concepts of music teaching, classroom management and curriculum development.  It will be an open space where you can ask any question no matter how simple. 

Sign up via the Spring CPD events form

Composition Tools in Charanga 

Tuesday 7 February 16.00-17.30 at Riverview CofE Primary School, Epsom KT19 0JP 

Audience: Primary teachers, specialist and non-specialist with Charanga licence

Session leader: Timothy Bond

A Charanga Musical School CPD training – Composing for Surrey schools.  

To attend this in person CPD session, register here

Part Singing and Harmonies for Your Choir

Thursday 9 February 17.00-18.30 at Cranleigh School, Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, GU6 8QQ

Audience: Primary teachers

Session Leader:  Cole Bendall

A workshop for teachers who want to develop their choir’s skills in singing in 2 or more parts. This practical workshop, rescheduled from November, will explore ways in which to introduce part singing, rehearsal techniques, and real-world examples from music submitted by teachers. Learn methods you can put to use straight away in preparing music for the Primary Music Festival concerts!

Sign up via the Spring CPD events form

Save the Date

Upcoming CPD training

New Approaches for Recorder in the Classroom, Wed 22nd Feb (TBC), 16.00-17.30

Progressing with the Primary Festivals Music, Mon 27 Feb, 16.00-17.30

Creating a primary school music development plan with the Surrey Curriculum Evaluation Tool, Tue 7 Mar, 16.00-17.30

Introduction to using Makaton in Music Settings, Wed 15 Mar, 15.30-17.00

Opportunities provided by external partners 

Below we highlight some free music workshops by other providers, that may be of interest 

Manic Street Teachers

A new set of resources for Primary and Secondary school music.   Features Musician of the Month resources and some fabulous curriculum focused song ideas and all linked with the Model Music Curriculum.  We think it is well worth checking out for some new approaches.
As a special limited time offer for Surrey Teachers there is an extended selection of FREE resources available from the Manic Street Teachers website:  Manic Street Teachers

·            4x September Musician of the Month packs

·            6x Songs (The Science Jukebox, The Maths Jukebox and The Literacy Jukebox)

·            The Music Jukebox 

·            1x Timeline History poster

·            1x Lyric Reading Comprehension pack

·            1 x Marvellous Music Video writing prompt

ABRSM: Teacher Hub 
ABRSM has launched and provides a place where you can join a community of like-minded teachers, share resources, knowledge and expertise, and find relevant and engaging CPD, including several devised for non-music-specialist Primary teachers.  There’s also a wealth of free material, including free videos to watch, articles to read and resources to download. We’ll be adding to this regularly to create a thriving space that embraces new content and fresh ideas guided by you – the teachers!

Make

Club Origami – Early Years touring show

Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23 March 2023

Rip, fold and scrumple! Shall we see what we can make with a single square of paper? As you scrunch the paper, see how your imagination begins to dance… Dive into the magical world of Club Origami, an immersive and interactive dance show inviting family audiences to create, imagine and explore whole new ways of thinking, playing and moving.  Dance, fashion and live music meet the magic of origami to sweep us up on a spirited and inspiring adventure in a land made purely of paper and play. 

Club Origami is presented by Little Big Dance – a pioneering national initiative creating new dance work for under-fives and their families, led by South East Dance in partnership with DanceEast, Take Art and Yorkshire Dance. “Full of imagination, creativity springing from an empty page” The Guardian  Little Big Dance – Club Origami Trailer – YouTube

Fee: £125 for two performances during the day at your setting. At least one of these must be for nursery aged children. Audience size approx. 40 children. It is up to you if you pass on the costs by charging for tickets.

Please email susan.dinmore@surreycc.gov.uk with expressions of interest to host a show or for more information.