At Kingsway Junior School, we are proud to work in partnership with Hertfordshire Music Services (HMS) to provide every child in Year 4 with the opportunity to learn the trumpet as part of their curriculum music lessons.

This programme forms part of our commitment to delivering a broad, balanced and inclusive music curriculum. It supports the expectations of the National Curriculum by ensuring that all pupils have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument, perform as part of an ensemble and develop their understanding of music from a range of cultures, genres and historical periods.

The Year 4 trumpet programme is delivered by specialist music teachers from Hertfordshire Music Services alongside the class teacher. Lessons take place during the school day and every child is encouraged to participate, regardless of previous musical experience.

What Will Children Learn?

Throughout the year, pupils will:

• Learn how to assemble, care for and play a trumpet safely.
• Develop correct posture, breathing and embouchure (mouth position).
• Read and perform simple musical notation and rhythms.
• Build confidence through playing individually and as part of a whole-class ensemble.
• Listen to, perform and respond to music from around the world.
• Explore a wide range of musical styles, including classical, jazz, rock, folk, film and world music.
• Develop important skills such as concentration, perseverance, teamwork and creativity.

Learning Across the Year

Autumn Term – Getting Started

Children begin by learning how to hold and care for their instrument before producing their first sounds. They learn simple rhythms and musical notation and quickly begin performing familiar tunes together. By the end of the term, pupils are confidently reading and performing a small range of notes.

Spring Term – Music Around the World

During the spring term, pupils discover how music reflects different cultures and traditions. They explore music from countries around the world while continuing to develop their playing skills and extending the range of notes they can perform. Activities include improvisation, body percussion, composing using graphic scores and performing music inspired by different cultures.

Summer Term – Exploring Musical Genres

In the final term, children build on their musical knowledge by exploring a variety of musical genres, including rock, jazz, film music, classical, folk and theatre music. They continue to improve their performance skills, musical expression and confidence while learning about the history and purpose of different styles of music.

Why Is This Important?

Research shows that learning a musical instrument can support children's wider development by improving:

• Listening and concentration
• Memory and problem-solving
• Confidence and resilience
• Creativity and self-expression
• Teamwork and communication

Most importantly, we hope every child experiences the enjoyment of making music together.

Continuing the Musical Journey

The Year 4 First Access programme often inspires children to continue learning an instrument beyond the classroom. Families who wish to explore further tuition can access information about individual or small-group lessons through Hertfordshire Music Services.

We look forward to seeing every Year 4 pupil discover their own musical voice through this exciting opportunity.