Play with Us

In the first classroom I walk into at Haute Vallée School, a group of Year 7 students are learning “Seven Nation Army” by the White Stripes on woodwinds; in the next one, it’s “Lose Yourself” by Eminem on cellos; another group is playing “Hot Cross Buns” on brass instruments. I regret not getting to see what the drummers are up to.

These lessons are part of Haute Vallée’s initiative to build music lessons into the curriculum and give all Year 7 students an instrument to take home with them.

I spoke with Haute Vallée’s Head of Music, Charlotte Cooper, about the importance of the initiative and how partnerships with the community have made it possible.

How did you convince the school that the music lessons needed to be built into the curriculum?

I am very lucky to work in a very supportive school where providing opportunities for all students is high priority. By making something compulsory, the students just take part without having to feel different. Allowing the students to select which instrument they would like to play, makes them responsible for their own decisions. If the instrumental lesson is part of the curriculum, this avoids taking students out of other subjects through the school day. The lesson is split into two halves, half the lesson being on their chosen instrument and the other follows the school music curriculum which includes playing the keyboard, vocals, alongside listening and appraising.

Why is it important for every student to learn an instrument?

Students will never find out if they enjoy playing music until they have the chance to do so. It is important that all students have the same opportunities; music is inclusive and should be available to all. In the past, instrumental lessons were often only for those who could afford it. Music helps students develop all kinds of skills, not least the social aspect of playing in a group. Each student starts from the same point (complete beginner). This creates a safe and supportive environment. Some students find reading or writing a challenge, but discover they have a natural talent for music. Music is a universal language; it makes no difference which language you are fluent at speaking. Music helps students with literacy and mathematics, and it helps with coordination and confidence whilst stimulating creativity and developing memory skills.

Why is it important for each student to have their own instrument to take home?

With each student having the opportunity to take an instrument home to rehearse, no one is left out. This encourages students to be responsible, to remember to practice, to bring their instrument to school, to be organized and to work independently. Opportunities to perform on stage also require students to have their own instruments, and with the recent pandemic, sharing instruments is not recommended. I have been expressing my passion for this project for many years, so I set about finding support from Islanders and other local musicians as well as the school.

Who are some organisations you have partnered with to deliver the programme?

We have been lucky enough to a have support from a variety of sources. I spent a lot of time discussing my ideas and generally asking for help from businesses. The idea to apply for funding support from Jersey Arts Strategy came about after a conversation I had on a beach! We have funding from Jersey Arts Strategy; teachers and some instruments from Jersey Music Service; sponsorship for instrument repairs from SGB; repair and support from Broken Wind; instrument donation from Windcraft; donations of unused instruments from several Islanders. We have introduced the learning of snare drum into the curriculum, too, with the intention of developing a School Drum Corps. We were lucky enough to have a workshop earlier in the year from The Royal Marines which inspired the students.

Why is this programme so important to you as a teacher?

I have been Head of Music at Haute Vallee school since January 2004 and during this time I and Mr. Young, my very talented second in department, have encouraged and taught many students to play musical instruments and perform on stage. Some have gone on to be successful performers, DJs, recording artists, band members or teachers - playing locally and on the international stage. We regularly have many students opting to take Music at KS4. Over time, I noticed that most students were only learning the instruments that we were able to teach them during their school music lessons, instruments such as piano, guitar, drums. Very few students are fortunate enough to be able to afford their own instruments let alone the extra tuition fees that will support the further development of their skills and talents.

Music is such an important part of the education journey and carries with it so many benefits for young people that they can carry forward into later life. I have always believed that all students should have the opportunity to learn to play an instrument without having to pay - this has been a vision of mine for many years. Without “traditional” instrumentalists who will play on film soundtracks? Who will entertain the crowds at celebrations such as Liberation Day?

Our local bands, musical theatre events and orchestras need young people to keep music live in the future so we can all enjoy the power that music can have on us.

Learning Partnerships

Adult & Community Education at Highlands offers courses that start in February and March. All are perfect way to spend time with your Valentine, Galentine, or Palentine.

Sound Bath Meditation

Tuesday, 7 February 2023 / 6.30 - 7.30pm or 8-9pm 1 SESSION

During this session, students will immerse in waves of sound. The powerful sound waves reduce the stress, rush and haste that have accumulated throughout the day. Participation in a relaxation session allows participants to pause, relax, deepen the breath, release tensions, and feel lighter. Students should wear casual, comfortable clothes. Students should bring a yoga mat, pillow, and blanket.

Dipping Into Drag

Thursday, 9 February 2023 / 6:30 - 9pm 1 SESSION

This one-day workshop teaches students about the history of drag queens and drag kings and offers students a chance to experiment with makeup, fashion, wigs, accessories and attitude to find their drag identity. Makeup as well as some wigs, clothing and shoes will be supplied, but students are encouraged to bring their own ideas.

Peace of Mind Workshop

Monday, 20 February 2023 / 6 - 8.30pm 4 WEEKS

In this four-week course, students will learn how peace of mind is available to every one of us but a lot of times is hidden. On this course, students will explore how amazing our minds are and how we've (innocently) misunderstood how they work. Simply knowing a little more about how our minds work can help us live a more peaceful, balanced and contented life.

Beginers Massage for Two

Tuesday, 21 February 2023 / 7 - 9pm 6 WEEKS

For pairs of students who want to learn basic Swedish massage. At the end of this five-week course, students will be able to administer a full body massage safely, professionally and effectively. Students will learn the basic underpinning structures of the body. They will learn the effects of Swedish body massage on the body and techniques used. Pairs of students may be partners, relatives or friends.

Do Nothing Meditation

Wednesday, 22 February 2023 / 6 - 8.30pm 4 WEEKS

In this four-week course, students will explore how by simply 'doing nothing' for short periods of time, they can achieve the many benefits that usually come with longer meditation practices. Busy lifestyles make it difficult to switch off, and some people struggle to build a regular meditation practice, but this method removes the struggle by asking students literally to do nothing. Students should bring their own yoga mats, blankets and pillows.

Linocut Printing for Beginners

Wednesday, 22 February 2023 / 9.15 - 11.15am or 7-9pm 3 WEEKS

At the end of this course, students will be able to display a basic confidence in designing, carving and printing linocut prints. Students will learn about the history, equipment and techniques involved with linocut printing. Students will be able to demonstrate skill in employing these techniques on their own original creations. Students will take home their creations at the end of the course as well as a starter kit of tools and ink to continue experimenting. Cost of materials is included in the fee.

Reconnecting: Sense of Smell

Monday, 6 March 2023 / 10am - 12pm 1 SESSION

At the end of this workshop, students will have a better understanding of their sense of smell. Students will use colours and words to explore the different ways that they experience fragrances and aromas. This workshop is led by artisanal perfumer Frances Lamb.

HighlandsACE.com