AIM

• To develop creative and performance skills 

• To develop an awareness of music in many different genres through Listening, Performing and Composing

CONTENT

Listening and Appraising 

This unit encourages students to develop their listening and appraising skills through the study of music across a variety of styles and genres. 

The content is divided into four Areas of Study: 

• Western Classical Music 1650 – 1910 

• Popular music 

• Traditional music 

• Western music since 1910 

This unit is assessed through a 1 hour 30 minute written examination. 

Performing: 

In this unit students develop their performing skills in both a solo and ensemble context. The student should aim to perform at Grade IV standard. The unit is assessed through one recorded solo and one recorded ensemble performance. 

Composition: 

Composing music emphasises the creative aspect of music and allows students to appreciate the process of creating music. Students will be encouraged to explore a range of techniques for developing and manipulating ideas, and turn them into completed pieces of music. Music ICT skills can be developed in composition by the use of ‘Noteflight’ and ‘Soundtrap’ software.

ASSESSMENT

Listening (40%) 

Students will sit a 1 hour 30 minute written paper at the end of the course. 

Performing (30%) 

Students will perform both a solo and ensemble piece at the end of the course. 

Composition (30%) 

Students will write and record 2 compositions for assessment.

OTHER INFORMATION

All candidates choosing Music GCSE are advised to have reached grade 3 standard in theory and/or on an instrument or voice before the start of the course. 

If unsure, students should ask their Year 9 teacher who will give them a test. All candidates must already receive regular instrumental tuition and this will continue throughout the course. 

As a GCSE music student your son/daughter should be taking instrumental lessons. If those instrumental lessons take place at school they will be timetabled during break, assembly or lunch to avoid missing lessons.