What's the music this week? W/c 17 November

This week it's all about: The 1960s

This week’s MaBaL theme is pop music of the 1960s. Following what was quite a formulaic structure to Rock ‘n’ Roll music in the 1950s, the 1960s allowed a lot more freedom of expression in music alongside experimentation. 

Groups rather than soloists emerged, particularly from Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham and London. This was particularly true in Liverpool, where it has been estimated that there were around 350 different bands active, often playing ballrooms, concert halls and clubs. 

The late 1950s group Buddy Holly and the Crickets influenced the choice of name of The Beatles. A number of Liverpool performers were able to follow them into the charts, including Cilla Black, Gerry and the Pacemakers and the Searchers. The Beach Boys, The Rolling Stones and The Beatles plus many more besides. 

Psychedelic Rock of the Doors and Jimi Hendrix took off in California, as did the sunny Surf Rock songs of the Beach Boys. This group sang in 5 part harmony, in a barbers’ shop style with the top part falsetto. When listening to such as ‘Surfin’ USA’, it is difficult not to be transported to a west coast USA beach, riding the sunlit waves.  

A strong folk scene in the USA saw Bob Dylan begin his career and he is still an active performer today - he performed in his usual eccentric fashion in Liverpool two weeks ago at the age of 83 and wrapped up a 3 year World Tour this week at the Royal Albert Hall.

MABAL (Music at Break and Lunch) is music played through the school's speaker system during break and lunch.  Chosen by Mr Taylor, Lead Teacher for Music, this is designed to offer exposure to the curriculum in different ways, and support pupils' appreciation of music.

The focus is on one theme each week across a genre, a country or from history.  The theme could also link to the season or an event in school, such as the production.  Any further suggestions are welcomed - pupils should see Mr Taylor or email a.taylor@priory.lancs.sch.uk