Music plays an important part in the life of Amport School and, we believe, is a strength of the school, particularly singing. As part of our music curriculum,usually all children from Year 3 onwards are taught to play the descant recorder and to read music. As this is part of the music curriculum rather than a club, it is taught during lesson time by a class teacher. We often take part in Key Stage 1 and 2 Recorder Festivals and Vocal Festivals. Sadly, this is on hold for the autumn term 2020 at least.
In KS2, children have the optional opportunity to learn an orchestral instrument for which there is a charge. Peripatetic teachers deliver lessons on stringed, woodwind and brass instruments along with keyboard and guitar. Older children are given the opportunity to join the Andover Area Ensembles run by Hampshire Music Service.
Children from Willow and Rowan Classes put on a production in the summer term for their families. Our last production in 2019 (no production in 2020, sadly), was Ali Baba and the Bongo Bandits which was hilarious! Past productions have included Rockbottom, Mystery at Magpie Manor; Three Cheers for Mrs Butler!; Aladdin Trouble; Cinderella Rockerfella; Hoodwinked; The Emerald Crown;The Blue Crystal; Alice the Musical and Wind in the Willows to name just a few. All children in KS2 are involved in the production with Year 6 children taking the lead roles.
KS1 and Year R usually perform a nativity play every Christmas. This year, we enjoyed a performance of Everyone Loves a Baby which proved to be very funny. Past nativities have included The Inn-spectors, Its A Baby!; Born In A Barn; Are we nearly there?; The Raggedy King; and Hey Ewe! All children are involved with Year 2 children taking the lead roles. The nativity this year, 2020, will look different due to Covid restrictions.
At Christmas, the children lead a Lessons and Carols service where a mix of traditional and contemporary carols are sung. At other services throughout the year, children enjoy learning and singing a variety of hymns and songs. Agian, this year, all this has had to be curtailed.