About Our Department

Teacher(s):	Mrs J. Rimmer, Mrs L. Kemp,
Room(s):	Music block
Courses:	1st Year Music,	2nd Year Music,
	Standard Grade Music	National Units
	Intermediate 2 Music	Higher Music
	Advanced Higher Music.
Resources:	Resources	Traditional Music Centre

The Music Department is situated in a purpose built building in the school grounds and comprises a suite of classrooms and practice rooms, together with a Concert Room. Here the school population enjoys making music on a variety of instruments whilst developing skills in the elements of Performing, Listening and Inventing. There is a large uptake for certificate music courses both at Standard Grade and Higher Levels and results are consistently above the national average.

View of the music block:

Instrumental lessons are provided by a team of Instrumental Instructors who are employed by Scottish Borders Council Education Authority. The Authority aims to provide an effective and excellent service which responds to the needs of learners of all ages and abilities in preparation for life and work in the modern world.

"In trying to make sense of a confusing world, many would say it is essential to start with the ground you are standing on: to start with your own locality and region and move out from there to the rest of Scotland and beyond."
(Traditional Music In Scotland. Scottish Arts Council 1999.)

The Traditional Music Centre aims to Promote the music of our country's culture. Enrich students' musical experience. Provide the opportunity for more students to learn to play. Recognise the expertise of folk musicians of our community. Ensure that a rich cultural heritage is kept alive and secured for future generations. Complement the existing Instrumental Service. Strengthen existing links with primary school and the wider community. Forge new links at home and abroad. Increase choice and the opportunity to make music together.

With the recession in the textile and electronic industries the town of Selkirk is facing difficult times.
The Traditional Music Centre in Selkirk High School offers the opportunity to raise students' self- esteem and widens opportunities for social inclusion.

The Traditional Music Centre reflects the ethos of the High School in which the Music Department aims to
"provide a happy and stimulating working environment, where students and teachers can learn and grow, where achievement is encouraged and each individual's achievement is recognised."