Ethos
Performance is at the heart of music education at Royal Russell Junior School, and since everyone has a voice, then singing is the first instrument of performance. Through performance the children express themselves through singing, and through singing they experience and learn about music.

In the Early Years Foundation Stage the emphasis is on singing games, enjoyment and participation. Later, the elements of music experienced in this way are made conscious.

Music is for everyone, and everyone should learn to make and share their music. As a creative subject, music is explored through experimenting with sounds and combinations of sounds, and ultimately to free composition, with many small steps on the way, giving children the confidence to try, and maybe at first to fail, though that is a judgement they will make for themselves, as no experiment is a failure. Those who develop a particular interest or aptitude for music may choose to take lessons on an individual instrument and learn to express music through this.


Individual Lessons
We have a team of visiting instrumental teachers who provide tuition on most instruments, and we will look for a teacher for any instrument we do not yet offer. These lessons are taken during the school day and a schedule is rotated on a weekly basis. Children may take exams on these instruments and we deal with a number of different exam boards, depending on the instrument.


Choir
The Choir exists to provide a chance for those who particularly like singing and like to develop vocal and choral skills beyond the classroom. The Choir sings at the weekly chapel service and on occasions outside school. Currently the Choir has an open entry policy.


Orchestra
The Orchestra provides an opportunity for those who have developed elementary skills on an orchestral instrument. These children are encouraged to join the orchestra, as the experience of playing in an ensemble reinforces rhythmic, reading and listening skills as well as enriching their instrumental experience.


Facilities
The Music Department centres round a large teaching room for class music lessons. Satellite to this are a number of practice and teaching rooms for small groups and solo lessons and rehearsals. The department is equipped with a range of instruments for classroom use, as well as Pianos and Keyboards.