The aims of the Department are:-
The Music department is a vibrant and exciting hive of activity. It is resourced with a variety of instruments, including guitars, drums percussion, and a range of keyboards. Its 8-track recording studio allows students to record their own demo tapes and compositions. It uses the latest sequencing technology to create a range of music and Information technology to produce the very latest sounds.
The Department is supported by a range of peripatetic teachers offering tuition on wind, brass, strings, voice and drums.
Students take part in three main shows throughout the year. This gives ample opportunity for students to practice their performance skills in front of a live audience.
Visitors have included a range of professional musicians to give live workshops, and the school recently hosted the Roland UK 1999 Tour.
Students are encouraged to set up their own rock/pop bands and take advantage of the open house policy of the department.
Students have produced two CDs of their own work in a professional recording studio. These were mixed by a local producer and are available form the School.
Mr. Ferry
Mrs. Richardson
Les Watts - Head of Department
Les is 34 years old and is a
working musician in and around the North East.
Les has his own band called 'The Les Watts Band '. The Band has appeared at the School for fund raising events and for the students to guest alongside professional musicians.
The Music Departments' work is often cross-curricular, supporting other Departments in its unique unit of study approach. The Department studies music from a range of culture and original. This leads to religious and historical conventions. The Department also reaches into the Community with its many concerts and performance activities.
The Les Watts Band
Internet Sites:
Roland UK
Roland is a well-known business that specialises in a varied amount of music and instrument information.
The Institute for Music Research : University of Texas at San Antonio
The Institute for Music Research was established to promote research in the areas of music psychology and music technology. Current activities are divided into six categories: Online Services, Conferences, Research, Publications, Presentations, and a Ph.D. proposal.
The Variety of Music:
http://www.edunet.ie/stlaur/music.html
This site looks at many aspects of music including: the impact of music on our lives - pop, rock, rave, etc.; Musical instrument; Music in cinema, TV; The history of music, including classical music, foreign language and music.
Education and Music Industries in Ireland and Elsewhere:
http://www.ucc.ie/ucc/depts/music/online/irsites.html
This site encompasses a wide range of links to useful resources, information and related organizations. Well worth a visit!