At Gymnasium Hochrad music is taught in English in grades 8 and 9 and replaces the German-speaking music class. Music is also an elective possibility in high school. The music curriculum comprises listening and responding, performing and composing activities. Focused listening is an important part in this class, both for its sheer enjoyment potential and for its essential role in composing and performing. The child is encouraged to listen with attention to sounds in the environment and gradually to become aware of how sound is organised in music. Performance incorporates a balance of singing and instrumental playing of his/her own work and the work of others.