We are very excited by the results of IGCSE Music this year and one student gained an A. It is very encouraging for the Arts teachers in general.

The music curriculum at YWIES is a very unique, engaging, and intensive programme. By offering this programme, students are participating in learner-centred and enquiry-based approaches to learning. Generally, the student only learns to sing or play an instrument in the public school’s music class, but here at YWIES, students will have the opportunity to engage with music through the activities of listening, performing and composing.

Listening:

Our students have to learn the music theory, music history (which include Baroque, Classical, Romantic and 20th century music), as well as the music from different part of the world. We believe, this will help our students to develop a perceptive, sensitive and critical response to the local and global cultures, and thus to form an appreciation of cultural similarities and differences.

Unlike the other international schools without fixed and systemic curriculum documents, here we have written our own music curriculum and textbooks from Year 1 to Year 13; this will help students to achieve the highest grades possible. Meanwhile, in recognition of the fact that the majority of our students are EAL learners, the Music Department will support and implement all initiatives instigated by the school under the bilingual cultures.

Performing:

Music is a fundamental form of expression, both personal and cultural. By making sharing and performing music, students contribute to their culture, schools and communities, as well as develop creativity and critical thinking skills. At YWIES Guangzhou, we not only encourage growth in the classrooms, but also at various events inside or outside the school. We have found a number of groups like, chamber ensemble, rock band, choir, and they are actively involved in lots of events and festival, like Guangzhou British day, Seeds of Hope concert, Christmas concert, and Founder’s Day. In particular, from this year, we will give students opportunities to participate in and experience world-class music festivals, such as the International Choral Music Festival and Philadelphia International Music Festival in the US.

Artist-in-Residence (AIR)

YWIES Guangzhou includes an Artist-in-Residence Programme, a unique educational experience in which a working artist interacts creatively with students of all ages within the school’s educational programme. The artists lead various art projects across the school, as part of developing their own professional body of artwork. Students learn through experience about the dynamic art scene in China and worldwide, develop aesthetic sense and understanding and acquire their own creative artistic techniques and styles through working with someone who makes a living from being an artist.