Head of Music

Owen Beddows

I make composition feedback specific enough for students to choose their next musical step independently, while ensemble work gives them opportunities to practise and play with others.

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A little about me

I lead Music from Year 7 to GCSE and coordinate the ensemble programme. Teaching and ensemble work ask for different kinds of attention: students need to understand musical ideas, practise them and find opportunities to play with others.

Composition feedback is a particular concern when students are working independently in practice rooms. A comment should be clear enough to help them decide what to try next, without taking over the piece or turning feedback into a list of corrections. I look for ways to make the musical choice being discussed specific.

Access to instrumental lessons depends on the resources available. I look for ways to stretch the pupil-premium funding set aside for tuition. Across classroom and ensemble work, I want students to have a meaningful route into making and understanding music.

How I approach a lesson

Give composition feedback that points to a musical decision the student can revisit.
Coordinate ensemble opportunities alongside classroom Music from Year 7 to GCSE.
Look for ways to stretch pupil-premium funding for instrumental tuition.