Once again, the summer term concluded with our youth music courses, culminating in a hugely successful...
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A note from the Head of Bedfordshire Music

Once again, the summer term concluded with our youth music courses, culminating in a hugely successful concert series showcasing an incredible example of the talent of the students in our youth music groups. As a perfect end to the summer and beginning to autumn, the Youth Opera's stunning performance of Die Fledermaus was a fantastic success: everyone who attended one of the performances commented on the delightful production, praising the superb singing, acting and musicianship throughout. A big well done and thank you to all involved for helping to make both the courses and concerts a fantastic musical experience for everyone!

In 2008, the Department for Children, Schools and Families, in partnership with Federation of Music Services, initiated a programme of self-evaluation for local authority music services. Over four days in July this year, Bedfordshire Music's own self-evaluation underwent a rigorous moderation audit. The process (like a school Ofsted inspection) examines all aspects of the music services' work, and concluded that:

  • The quality of teaching and learning provided by the service, and the achievement and standards reached by its pupils, was found to be good with some outstanding aspects, particularly in vocal and ensemble opportunities.
  • Bedfordshire Music has significantly broadened and increased its provision to encompass a wider variety of new musical opportunities in schools and communities such as: World Music; Samba, African & Indian drumming and Rock and Pop music.
  • Over the past four years, pupil participation levels have risen by over 100% seeing the service regularly working with over 11,000 children, young people and adults in schools and communities each year.
  • Outstanding leadership has ensured an effective self-evaluation with a strong focus upon continuous improvement.

Overall, Bedfordshire Music was judged to be a good Music Service with some outstanding features.

Looking to this academic year, we have launched a range of new after school music clubs at Micro Music Centres aimed at young musicians of all abilities. These include Junior Voices, African Drumming, and Guitar Clubs, as well as Rock and Pop and World Percussion. For more information visit www.bedfordshiremusic.com

So once again, the autumn term 2009 begins on a high note!

Richard Hart,
Head of Bedfordshire Music

October 10, 2009 | Permalink | Comment