ISR Music Department

Music is an important component of the ISR curriculum. It provides students with a practical approach to composition and performance whilst developing understanding of the main elements of music. Students build their IB learning skills throughout the entire program, such as inquiry, communication, risk-taking and reflecting as they learn to progress in their musical abilities.

Music at ISR

Students receive music lessons from specialist teachers from grade 1 all the way through to the end of grade 8. The subject is structured in units that combine Music Making and Music Literacy. Students gradually develop their understanding of music theory as well as the role of music, its impact and relevance in society. Throughout this journey, students have the opportunity to learn some instruments such as recorder, piano, guitar and ukulele, at a basic level.

Music is an elective subject for the IGCSE course in years 9 and 10, and for the IB Diploma in years 11 and 12. Across these four years, students develop analytical, compositional and performing skills, and expand their theoretical, historical, and cultural knowledge of music through the study of Western European Art Music (WEAM), and Popular Music from all over the world

Students from grades 1 to 9 have the opportunity to participate in various music activities offered after school through our SEA program. These activities include the ISR Orchestra, Choir, and Rock Band. Additionally, private music lessons are available in school through our partner, Musicbox Oxana.

Ms. Bucher

Head of Elementary School Music

Dr. Perez

Head of Secondary School Music

Overview of Curriculum

Music in Elementary School

The ISR Elementary School Music program offers two lessons per week to students in Grades 1 and 2 and one lesson per week to students from Grades 3 – 6.  The curriculum integrates elements of Orff and Kodály. There is also the opportunity to learn instruments at a basic level (these include Orff instruments, recorder, keyboard, ukulele, guitar, and drums) within the class structure according to grade level. We are committed to implementing music technology as an aid to composition and notation. Students in Grades 4 through 6 use digital audio workstations and sometimes Midi keyboards as a tool to arrange and compose music.

Our Elementary School Music program is designed to develop musically literate students who experience the joy of making music both individually and in ensemble settings. We aim to empower students to become lifelong, active participants in music-making in whatever capacity they choose.

We are guided by the National Association for Music Education standards, which develop students’ capacity to engage in the three artistic processes: creating, performing, and responding. These enduring practices reflect how musicians grow, connect with socitey, and participate in the global community throughout their lives. We believe that creative experience is essential for developing 21st-century skills. Students perform as singers and instrumentalists, applying these skills both in and beyond school. In addition, they respond to music from a broad range of genres, time periods, and cultures to develop as informed, reflective global citizens and lifelong learners.

ISR School Song

Music in Secondary School

The Secondary School music curriculum aims to broaden students’ cultural and aesthetic knowledge of music while also providing them with the opportunity to learn an instrument and participate in musical performances. Digital resources are used to further explore creativity in music composition and production tasks. In the Spring, our Arts Evening showcases some of the best performers from Secondary School.

Between years 7 and 9, students explore a broad range of music genres, including jazz, pop, Western European Art Music (WEAM), and music from around the world. The curriculum is structured around three key strands: listening, performance, and composition. This approach provides students with a solid foundation to pursue music at the IGCSE and IB levels, should they choose to do so.

In years 9 and 10, the IGCSE curriculum emphasizes performance and composition, alongside an in-depth study of Western European Art Music (WEAM) periods. Additionally, it includes an exploration of the music from a specific region of the world, which varies according to the focus of that year’s exam. Students are exposed to a diverse array of world music, encompassing a wide range of styles and genres.

The IB Diploma Program Curriculum for Standard (SL) and High Level (HL) for Grades 11 and 12 is designed for students who wish to broaden their educational experience by adding research, experimentation, and performance to their profile. At SL, students are required to develop three projects as researchers, creators, and performers of a wide range of music linked to specific areas of inquiry. At HL, students are expected to develop a Contemporary Music Making project that encourages them to experience music industry standard practices. Through the course of study, students become aware of how musicians work and communicate.