Music is enjoyed by all pupils at Allenbourn Middle School and there are numerous opportunities for children to immerse themselves in creative music making from Monday through to Friday. Every pupil has the chance to develop their creativity, imagination and performance skills in Music. Lessons are delivered once a week and during this time, all pupils will learn how to appreciate music by listening, playing and composing. Music is a practical subject so the learning of it is fun and energetic and pupils quickly become confident and enthusiastic about composing and performing. Pupils create music individually, in pairs and small groups and they learn musicianship skills in every lesson. All pupils are encouraged to grow as musicians individually and at their own pace and this means tasks are differentiated to ensure pupils of all abilities are engaged and challenged. The schemes of work delivered at Allenbourn allow all pupils to develop their musical skills, but also take into consideration the changing and evolving of music in everyday life making their musical learning relevant to them. All pupils will leave Allenbourn with an excellent foundation for continuing their Music education at GCSE and A-Level standard.

Many pupils learn an instrument at Allenbourn and we have a team of 10 talented and inspiring Visiting Music Teachers who provide tuition in Brass, Woodwind, Strings and Percussion as well as piano, guitar and singing. These lessons take place during school time. Our VMTs work incredibly hard and do a tremendous job and the quality of the music heard in our school concerts demonstrates this. Children are also encouraged to enter music examinations which provide them with performance opportunities and a real sense of achievement.

We also offer a wide range of extra-curricular activities and clubs for the many Musicians here at Allenbourn and they take part during lunch times, Tutor times and after school. All pupils are encouraged to take part in Orchestra and Concert Band as soon as they are confident reading the level of music that is played. This gives pupils important ensemble experience and the opportunity to take part in concerts, solo events, trips and representing the school in the community. We currently have the following clubs available:

Orchestra, Concert Band, Brass Band, Choir, Folk group, String group, Samba and Guitar group.

There are many opportunities to perform throughout the school year. We hold a beautiful Christmas Carol Concert every year in Wimborne Minster. Our Choir and Folk group also play and sing at Kingston Lacy Christmas events and our Brass Band are invited annually to the switching on of the Christmas lights in Wimborne. Pupils also have the opportunity to perform throughout the year in concerts and exam celebrations and trips into the community. We end the year with a fantastic summer concert at The Tivoli which gives pupils the chance to showcase their creative talents on stage in front of an audience of friends and family. This is also where we present our Ben Waters Trophy which is awarded to the musician who has given outstanding contribution to music at Allenbourn. The Tivoli Concert is always an unforgettable and enjoyable experience.