Schools and departments need a coordinated approach to the way they select resources for gifted and talented pupils. This includes making decisions about what opportunities to provide for specialist tuition. Ideally, a range of opportunities should be given, as some gifted and talented pupils have an affinity not just to sound, but also to a particular instrument. Gifted and talented pupils often feel drawn to the sound of an instrument and this will be the one with which they make quickest progress. Alternatively, providing a series of 'tasters' will stimulate interest and may awaken a talent that would otherwise go unrecognised.

Visits to outside musical events and visits from musicians to the school can help to stimulate and extend pupils' learning, especially those who are gifted and talented. Gifted and talented pupils benefit from the opportunity to engage with others who demonstrate excellence and can provide suitable challenge and inspiration.

ICT can also play a major part in unlocking musical talent, especially for older pupils who have not had an opportunity to have specialist tuition at an earlier age. ICT provides a different means of expression that can short-circuit musical imagination to musical product without a pupil being limited by technical mastery of an instrument. Opportunities and training need to be provided for all pupils in the use of ICT, so that they can explore sounds and music in a way that is up to date and immediate.

See the 'Help your child discover' website (DfES) for activities in:

music