Music in Upper KS2
The Model Music Curriculum (MMC) for Years 5 and 6 builds on earlier learning by encouraging pupils to refine their musical skills and deepen their understanding of musical concepts. Singing becomes more advanced, with pupils performing songs that include syncopated rhythms, multiple parts (such as three- and four-part rounds), and a wider dynamic range. They are expected to sing with confidence, accuracy, and expression, both in classroom settings and in school performances, developing a strong sense of ensemble and musical style. Music Maestro Primary helps teachers to deliver this ambitious curriculum.
In composing and improvising, pupils explore more complex structures such as ternary form and chord progressions. They create music to evoke specific moods or accompany visual media like silent films or dramatic scenes. Pupils use a broader range of scales (e.g. pentatonic, major, minor) and begin to notate their compositions using staff notation and music technology. Improvisation is developed through extended melodic phrases and chordal sequences, helping pupils to express musical ideas with greater fluency and creativity.
Musicianship and performance are key focuses, with pupils reading and performing from rhythm and pitch notation confidently. They play melodies and accompaniments on tuned instruments (e.g. keyboards, percussion), understand time signatures (2/4, 3/4, 4/4), and use musical terminology such as fortissimo, pianissimo, and mezzo forte. Ensemble playing is encouraged, with pupils taking on melody or accompaniment roles in mixed groups, including school orchestras or bands. This prepares them for transition to Key Stage 3 with a solid foundation in musical literacy, creativity, and collaborative performance.
