8PAR - Performing Arts

Aims of the Course:

In Year 8 Performing Arts, ākonga continue to explore concepts in both Music and Drama through four main learning strands - Performance, Composition/Devising, Analysis and Context. 

The Music component of this course utilises the Kodály system of music education pedagogy - classroom singing, engagement through exploration and games, and folk music are all key elements of teaching and learning. Musical language and understandings are intended to create a “toolbox” of solutions that can be implemented by ākonga all the way through to their future years at the Senior Campus.

The Drama component of this course offers ākonga the opportunity to experience short-form Drama exercises and games. These help to build confidence and a critical eye for best practice in the individual, and also provide a pathway to introduce dramatic concepts and language at an early age.

Topics:

• “Intermediate” music literacy explored through singing, tuned percussion, and differentiated instrumental practice via the compulsory band programme. 

• More advanced music concepts are introduced including rhythmic syncopation and finer details of musical scores.

• Building music identity and confidence by working with others in a range of contexts with performance-based outcomes.

• Using Drama techniques to devise pieces of drama and connecting learning in the Drama space to draw on culture, family and lived experience.

• Pursue personal excellence as demonstrated through learning an instrument, managing practice time and self-management skills in a wider ensemble (band or orchestra) context and contributing to performances.

Other, eg. Field trips, Curriculum Enrichment:

Ākonga are offered a wide variety of critical experiences to broaden their understanding and experience of the Performing Arts across music, drama and dance. Ākonga also contribute to a range of ensemble performance opportunities including participation in primary school tours and the KBB Music Festival.

Assessment:

Subject and Career Pathways:

Year 8 Performing Arts leads on to Year 9 Music and Drama.

Careers in performing arts are wide and varied, including Music Director, professional musician, actor, director, dancer, choreographer, journalist, event coordinator, sound technician, teacher, composer, lighting director.