Sound Sensations at Southfield

Sensational people, making sensational sounds!

Sounds of Intent is an inclusive framework of musical engagement. It is a model of musical development that sets out how we all engage with music, from children in the early years to older people with dementia, from those with profound learning difficulties who are still learning to process sound, to others who are regarded as advanced musicians in their culture. Sounds of Intent is not specific to a particular style or genre of music; it is meant for music teachers, therapists, community musicians, carers, relatives and friends wherever they are, to help them:

• understand how children, young people and adults engage with music in different ways
• differentiate what they do according to people’s varying musical abilities, interests, preferences and needs
• gauge the impact of their work.

Sound Sensations follows the Sounds of Intent framework – using the levels to adapt the pupils’ participation in music making. At Southfield we have two classes that are participating in the programme, Swans and Woodpeckers. Each class uses a different approach to the music, but with an emphasis on making sure the music making is fun and engaging throughout the session.

During the sessions the children are encouraged to move, sing, play and interact with a variety of different music style – from reggae to rap. Herts Music Service have provided us with three iPads with accessible music software for the duration of the programme, as well as a drum pad, speakers and a theramini (a mini theremin!). Each of these provides a tactile and easy method for the children to join in with the music making session and feel a part of the sound experience.

Tim Emler, from Hertfordshire Music Service, visits Southfield twice every half term and leads engaging and fun sessions with the classes, building confidence and creative exploration through the set pieces of music from ‘Count Me In’ – a Sounds of Intent music resource. We have had such success with these sessions, with some amazing communication breakthroughs happening through the music and new experiences stirring a newfound creativity and musical enthusiasm.

Staff have observed pupils using visuals to join in with the song, using the Clarion music application on the iPad to work out the notes and rhythm of the music, children moving and using signs to enjoy and participate with the music and an improved, active curiosity towards music genres and instruments. Sound Sensations has increased social and emotional skills in both classes from turn taking, to fostering a sense of whole class community.

At Southfield, music is an intrinsic part of teaching and learning – supporting the children emotionally, physically and across the entire curriculum. Sound Sensations has added another level of engagement and development for the pupils and staff and boosts our aim of using music to not only explore sound but communication as well.