January 27th 2024
Music is such an important part of school life, and we are so proud of all our musicians and their achievements, under the wonderful leadership of Mrs. Braden. Moulsford’s three Choirs (Senior, Junior and Pop) are perhaps our most visible ensembles, but there is also super work regularly produced by our orchestra, string, drum and brass groups.
Listening to Moulsford music is always a joy for the audience, and it is great to witness the children’s musicality and confidence progress as they go through the school. The Summer Concert, held on the final night of the school year, is a particularly special occasion celebrating success across the year groups. As adults, we love seeing the children play, but the greatest benefits of performing are reserved for the children themselves.
It’s well documented, but worth reminding ourselves of all that children gain from learning and playing an instrument. Music helps cultivate a sense of social harmony, which fits perfectly with a Moulsford education. Connections are made that resonate far beyond the practice room, with our young musicians collaborating in ensembles, and in turn learning the art of teamwork, communication, and compromise. Whether harmonizing in a choir or synchronizing in an orchestra, the shared pursuit of musical excellence nurtures a strong bond between the children, who are often in different year groups. Through group performances, children develop confidence and a sense of belonging, enhancing their social skills and emotional intelligence.
The act of playing an instrument also helps children develop their fine motor skills, coordination, and dexterity, through such acts as manipulating the keys of a piano, plucking the strings of a guitar, or mastering the bow on a violin. Numerous studies have also highlighted the positive impact of musical training on academic achievement. The cognitive demands of reading musical notation and interpreting symbols provide a unique mental workout, enhancing overall cognitive abilities and academic performance. Children engaged in music tend to do better in maths, language, and standardised testing, as well as encouraging creativity, and the ability to ‘think outside the box’. It is also worth noting that senior schools – and universities - view music skills and learning very positively when considering candidates.
We have a particularly strong strings group at Moulsford, who have given audiences so much joy over the past few years. However, many of these boys are leaving us in July and will take their well-honed skills with them to their senior schools. Curiously, we are short of strings players in the lower end of the school. This may be a knock-on effect of Covid, with children (and their parents) perhaps reluctant to start playing the violin or cello during lockdown without in person tuition.
Mrs Braden is keen for all children to have the opportunity to play an instrument and would particularly welcome potential orchestral players. Please send budding Moulsford musicians her way, or do contact her yourself on [email protected] and she can encourage them on the start of their musical journey.
Finally, and for a bit of good cheer ahead of the weekend, I am delighted to share with you a new video which we have launched this week to promote the Pre-Prep, ahead of Open Day next Friday 2nd February, and also our Pre-Prep Stay & Play on Saturday 2nd March.
The aim of this video is to encapsulate the joy and fun of Pre-Prep and to showcase the wide variety of experiences enjoyed every day by our Pre-School and Pre-Prep pupils. It hopefully provides a snapshot and flavour of much that is offered and we hope you enjoy it. Please feel free to share with your friends and family.
