Art
A broad range of mediums are taught to expose the pupils to a variety of materials. These include painting, drawing, ceramics, papier-mâché, sculpture, collage, fabric painting, lino cuts, digital art, art forms and concepts etc. The basic art principles are taught in context and are repeated each succeeding year so that by the time the Grade 7 pupil leaves for high school they have a good understanding of both the practical aspects of art and the supporting theory underlying it. We encourage entry into Eisteddfods and opportunities to showcase artworks.
Music
What we offer
At Somerset House, music is seen as an important part of a child’s education. We offer regular class music lessons as part of the school week, where pupils are introduced to the enjoyment of music through active music making and learning. We provide further opportunities to explore the exciting world of music by providing pupils the opportunity to play a musical instrument, get involved in a music ensemble, or in any other music-related activity offered at the school. The task of every music teacher is to develop a love and appreciation of music in their pupils.
Class Music
All children from Grade 000 to Grade 7 have at least one class music session per week. During these sessions, they learn about the value of music, the joy of singing and making (and creating) music whilst expanding their knowledge of music. In Grade 2 and 3 children spend time learning to play the recorder. Across the board, our focus is on active music-making and listening.
From Grade 3 we incorporate elements of Music Production and the practical use of Music Technology. We believe in functional learning and require of our pupils to apply their new skills and knowledge in different practical projects that are designed to accommodate various levels of music competency where the content and concepts allow for it. Some children forego their Class Music lesson for an individual Music lesson.
Choirs
At Somerset House, we like to give as many pupils the opportunity to sing in our choirs as possible whilst maintaining a high standard of singing. We therefore offer the following vocal ensembles:
- Junior and Senior Choirs – a popular part of cultural life at Somerset House; there is an emphasis on quality singing combined with passion and pleasure. All Grade 1 pupils have an introductory choir class once a week where we develop their singing skills. All Grade 2 and 3 pupils who would like to join the Junior Choir are welcome to audition. From Grade 4, pupils can audition to join the Senior Choir.
Pupils are exposed to a wide variety of music and, at times, even combine movement with their singing. Performances such as a music tour, choir festivals, public performances, school concerts, eisteddfods, competitions and various assembly performances are included during the year. Choir rehearsals take place in the mornings before school starts.
Instrumental Music
Learning to play an instrument is the ultimate gift you can give your child. It is a skill that they can carry throughout their lives and one that will bring them immense pleasure for years to come. Tuition is offered in a wide range of instruments:
- Clarinet
- Flute
- Piano
- Recorder
- Saxophone
- Violin
- Vocal training
- Drums
- Guitar (acoustic, bass and electric)
- Trumpet
- Cello
- Ukelele
Lessons take place during the school day by extracting children from non-academic lessons. Alternatively, limited times are available before and after school or as approved by the Phase Head or Head of Department.
Ensembles and Bands
Pupils can audition to join our various Marimba bands and Ensembles. Pupils taking lessons at school are encouraged to join the Pop Band or String Ensemble.
Music Theory
Music Theory is initially offered as part of instrumental music lessons. As pupils progress on their instrument, they can sign up for Music Theory lessons starting with Beginner classes. Graded Theory classes are also available, and all the Music Theory classes take place before school. The graded Theory classes will prepare pupils for external Music Theory exams. Our Music Theory classes aim to equip pupils with a better understanding of music concepts and improve their reading capabilities. For pupils who find Music Theory challenging, extra Music Theory classes can be arranged depending on the availability of the teacher.
Instrumental Music Skills Development Programme (Mini Musicians)
Children in Grade 00 and Grade R can join our skills development programme to prepare them for taking instrumental music and develop their musical brain during the golden age of brain development. The course enables children to excel at instrumental lessons from an early age.
Drama
The Drama curriculum at Somerset House provides an enriching experience for every child from Grade 1 to 7. Our dedicated Drama Department ensures that students are immersed in a diverse range of dramatic techniques, which they then showcase in various productions throughout the year. In addition to this, we foster a spirit of collaboration with our Art and Music departments. This allows our students to explore dance, movement, as well as delve into the realms of set and costume design. They also gain valuable insights into the technical aspects of lighting and sound, providing a comprehensive understanding of the theatrical process. Furthermore, we actively encourage our students to participate in both virtual and live English and Afrikaans Eisteddfods, providing them with opportunities to excel in their chosen areas. Additionally, we inspire them to engage with local theatre productions, fostering a sense of community involvement.
