Episode 31: THE SCHOOL OF NOISE - Dan Mayfield - Head ofThe School of Noise

Dan Mayfield is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, sound artist, author, and Acoustic Ecology graduate. He founded the School of Noise in 2015 and has since run online and offline workshops for children, young people and adults encouraging the exploration of music and the science of sound. Their aim is to provide creative and imaginative activities using sound in accessible, fun and educational ways.

So many previous guests on The Quiet Mark Podcast played instruments in bands before embarking on sound and acoustic related careers; varying from the sound design of household products for global brands, to the acoustic design of some of the world’s most iconic buildings.

In July 2021, Ofsted published its latest research review looking at music education in schools. It can be found on Gov.uk under the headline: Simply ‘doing’ music is not enough. It points out that the number of pupils taking up music at key stages 4 and 5 continues to decline. Key stage 3 music provision has also been reduced and trainee primary teachers are offered shrinking amounts of musical training. And with reduced lesson time, this has been accompanied by lower levels of staffing to support a school’s rich musical life.

Therefore, it is more important than ever for schools to find ways that put high-quality music at the core of the curriculum.

Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector, Amanda Spielman said:

Music touches the heart of our humanity and its sense of wonder has influenced human societies throughout history. For many pupils, the music they love will be part of the narrative of their lives.

Music is part of the curriculum but simply ‘doing’ music is not enough. We shouldn’t be satisfied with just having music on the timetable. We need to be ambitious about what we expect for music in the classroom and make sure that time is well used.

Dan and The School of Noise are on hand to help. Discover more...