Music
Music in Ullapool High School is essentially a practical course which aims to involve, enthuse and inspire every pupil, regardless of their previous musical experience. Everyone has the ability to make music with their voice or using an instrument, and will be encouraged to do so. Music is all around us, and can be enjoyed by everyone, as well as it being a great way for people to be able to express themselves.
Broad General Education
During the BGE phase pupils follow the same course at the appropriate level for each pupil, receiving 2 periods of Music a week. Topics can change, but this gives an idea of what we cover:
In S1 and S2 pupils have the opportunity to develop skills in keyboard, tuned percussion, guitar, bass guitar, ukulele, singing and drum kit, as well composition. These will be expanded as we look at various different topics/styles including Scottish, Classical, Jazz, Film Music and Musicals, and World Music.
In S3 pupils opt into Music where they receive 3 periods a week. An emphasis is placed on building up practical skills, performing both individually and with others in the class, as well as doing some composing and learning about different musical styles. This is designed to prepare pupils with the necessary skills to enable them to take Music forward as an SQA subject.
Senior Phase
In the senior phase pupils have the opportunity to study music from National 4 to Advanced Higher level. There is also the option of undertaking stand-alone units.
For further information, please see the subject choice booklets (Pupil Information page) and the school prospectus (School Information page)
Course Pathways
Careers
There are many careers that use Music, some of them can be found here.
Resources and Revision
There are certain pieces of equipment which would be very useful for you to bring with you to Music each lesson. These are:
A pencil
Your Chromebook
The music department has all the instrumental equipment necessary, but if you have your own instrument you wish to bring in to use for certain topics, you are more than welcome!
When you are higher up the school and studying for a certificate class we can lend out equipment if necessary to help you complete work at home or in study time.
Useful Links:
Homework
Generally no formal homework is given out at BGE level. However, it is expected that pupils learning an instrument should be putting in regular practice outwith class time. Pupils should also aim to listen to a variety of music to expand their listening repertoire and knowledge.
As pupils move up the school and into certificate classes, homework becomes more important in Music, as practising and improving skills is the key to success. It is also important to consolidate concepts learned in class. Pupils will be expected to be practising their instruments regularly.
The Music department can be made available as a space to work in for pupils outside of class time (eg. break and lunchtimes) – just speak with a teacher to arrange!
Beyond The Classroom
There are many different ways you can get involved with music-related activities outside of the classroom.
We have Folk group and Wind group in school which meet on a regular basis.
If you are a piper or drummer, you can get involved in the local pipe band.
Music Tuition is available on a variety of different instruments – see the Highlife Highland website for more details and information on how to sign up.
Look out for opportunities run by Highlife Highland for regional music groups.
Look out for Fèis opportunies such as the Senior Fèis.
We have visits to local nursing homes to entertain.
We have opportunities for performing at concerts and ceilidhs.
If you are interested in sound then you can become part of the sound crew.
Look out for any exciting concerts/performances in the local area that you may wish to go to!
