Music at OWIS
Music is an integral part of the curriculum and school life at One World International School in Singapore. Across our campuses, students are encouraged to explore, create, perform and appreciate music in ways that build confidence, creativity and collaboration.
From their earliest years, students develop musical understanding through singing, movement, listening and performance. As they progress through Primary and Secondary School, they deepen their skills in instrumental performance, composition, music theory and critical listening. Students have regular opportunities to showcase their talents through recitals, assemblies, festivals and competitions, while those with a passion for music can pursue advanced studies through IGCSE and the IB Diploma Programme.
At OWIS, music is more than a subject—it is a powerful form of self-expression that nurtures resilience, teamwork, cultural appreciation and lifelong creativity.
Music in the Curriculum at OWIS
Early Childhood
In the Early Childhood years, students develop a joyful connection with music through singing, movement, rhythm and play. They learn to keep a steady beat, explore different sounds and recognise basic musical concepts such as pitch, tempo and dynamics. Through group performances, songs and rhymes, children build confidence while learning to listen and collaborate with others.
Students also begin creating simple musical patterns using instruments and their voices, encouraging imagination and self-expression. By listening to music from different cultures and traditions, they develop curiosity and appreciation for the diverse ways music can communicate ideas, feelings and stories.
Primary School
In Primary School, students expand their musical knowledge through performance, listening and composition. They learn to play classroom instruments such as percussion, recorders and ukuleles, while developing ensemble skills and musical confidence. Students begin reading and writing rhythms and melodies, applying musical vocabulary to analyse different genres, styles and historical periods.
Creative exploration is encouraged through improvisation and composition, where students organise musical ideas into structured pieces and perform them for others. Throughout the programme, students learn to reflect on their work, collaborate effectively and develop an appreciation for music as both an art form and a means of communication.
Secondary School
In Secondary School, students build greater independence as performers, composers and critical listeners. They develop accuracy, expression and ensemble skills through individual and group performances while learning effective rehearsal techniques. Students deepen their understanding of music theory, notation and musical terminology, analysing a wide range of genres, traditions and styles.
Composition becomes more sophisticated through the use of technology and digital music platforms, allowing students to create, refine and present original works. Through performance, listening and creative projects, students strengthen their artistic voice, leadership skills and ability to evaluate and improve their own musical work and that of others.
IB Diploma Programme
The IB Diploma Programme Music course challenges students to engage deeply with music as performers, creators and researchers. Students analyse music from diverse cultural, historical and contemporary contexts while developing advanced performance and compositional skills.
Through independent inquiry, creative experimentation and collaborative projects, they explore how music connects people, communities and traditions around the world. Students learn to communicate sophisticated musical ideas using specialist vocabulary, technology and notation, while reflecting critically on their artistic choices. The course prepares students for university study and careers in music and related fields while fostering creativity, discipline and global-mindedness.
Showcasing Music Artistry Through Events
Creative Pulse:
Lunchtime Arts Recital (OWIS Digital Campus)
Grade 7 Music Festival (OWIS Digital Campus)
Christmas and summer concerts (OWIS Nanyang Campus)
CCA recitals (OWIS Nanyang Campus)
MADD (Music, Arts, Dance and Drama) Week (OWIS Nanyang Campus)
Assembly Performances (International Day, Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Christmas, Whole School Assemblies at all campuses)
OWIS Has Talent Competitions (OWIS Digital Campus and OWIS Nanyang Campus)
Battle of the Bands (External Competition)
International Girl’s Choir: A choral collaboration between OWIS Digital Campus and IGC
Learning Spaces That Inspire Creativity
Our music learning environments across OWIS campuses are designed to support creativity, collaboration, and performance through a range of dedicated spaces.
- Music studios for lessons in all campuses — equipped for instrumental learning, singing and composition.
- Quantum Arena in OWIS Digital Campus — a dynamic performance space for large-scale showcases and productions.
- Multi-purpose hall in all campuses — flexible venues used for assemblies, concerts, rehearsals, and school productions.
- Black Box studios in OWIS Digital Campus and OWIS Nanyang Campus — intimate performance spaces ideal for smaller recitals, experimentation, and student-led showcases.
- Outdoor spaces at OWIS Nanyang Campus — open-air settings for informal performances, gatherings, and community events.
Together, these spaces provide students with varied opportunities to learn, rehearse, and perform in environments suited to different stages of their musical development.
Why Music Matters at OWIS
Creative Expression
Students discover their unique voice through performance, composition and artistic exploration, building confidence and creativity along the way.
Collaboration & Confidence
Music develops teamwork, communication and resilience as students rehearse, perform and create together.
Global Perspectives
Through exposure to diverse musical traditions and cultures, students develop appreciation, empathy and international-mindedness.
Get in touch with us to see how we can support your child’s all-round development
Learn more about our child-centred teaching methodology. Discover why our rigorous and holistic curriculum successfully prepares your child and see how we raise internationally-minded and confident lifelong learners.