Music at Hartford 2026

OUR INTENT - What We Teach In Music

At Hartford Primary School, we believe music is for everyone. We want children to develop confidence, creativity and self-expression while gaining a lifelong appreciation of music. Through a range of musical experiences, children learn that music is a powerful form of communication that brings people together across cultures, communities and generations.

Children learn to sing, play instruments, listen carefully and create their own music. They develop an understanding of key musical elements such as pulse, rhythm, pitch, tempo and dynamics, and learn to discuss and evaluate music using appropriate vocabulary. They also explore a wide range of musical styles, genres and traditions from different cultures and historical periods.

By the end of Year 6, we want pupils to be confident performers, thoughtful listeners and creative musicians. They should be able to perform individually and as part of a group, compose and develop their own musical ideas, and talk about music with understanding and enthusiasm. Throughout the curriculum, the key threads of performance, listening, creativity, musical understanding and cultural appreciation are revisited, enabling children to build knowledge and skills over time.

OUR IMPLEMENTATION - How We Teach Music

Music is taught progressively from EYFS to Year 6 through a combination of classroom lessons, practical experiences and performance opportunities. In the Early Years, children explore music through singing, movement, rhythm and play. As they move through Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, they develop increasing confidence in performing, listening, composing and evaluating music.

Through the Kapow Music scheme, children experience a broad and balanced curriculum which introduces them to a variety of musical styles and traditions. Lessons provide opportunities to sing, play instruments, compose, improvise and listen critically. Children learn to apply their understanding of musical elements while developing their performance and composition skills.

Children begin learning the glockenspiel in Year 1, and Year 4 pupils receive whole-class instrumental tuition. Additional opportunities to learn instruments such as piano, drums and violin are also available. Performances and concerts further develop musical skills and confidence.

Our curriculum is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all learners. Teachers use modelling, scaffolding and practical activities to support and challenge pupils at every stage. Subject-specific vocabulary is taught and revisited regularly to help children discuss, analyse and evaluate music confidently.

Enrichment plays an important role in music at Hartford Primary School. Children benefit from live performances, educational visits and opportunities to perform within the school and wider community, helping them develop a deeper understanding and enjoyment of music.

OUR IMPACT - What Our Children Learn In Music

Through the music curriculum, children develop a secure understanding of key musical concepts and can apply this knowledge when performing, composing and listening to music. They make progress over time as they become increasingly confident, skilled and independent musicians.

Children demonstrate their learning through performances, compositions, discussions and teacher assessment. They are able to sing accurately, play instruments with control, create their own music and evaluate musical works using appropriate vocabulary.

Music also supports children’s personal development. Through regular opportunities to perform and collaborate, pupils build confidence, resilience and self-esteem. They learn to express themselves creatively, work effectively with others and appreciate the achievements of their peers.

By the end of Year 6, pupils leave Hartford Primary School with strong musical foundations, a love of music and the confidence to continue their musical journey. They understand the value of music in their own lives and in the wider world and are well prepared for the next stage of their education.

The Curriculum Lead for Music is: Joanna Oldfield