Music
Engage actively in an exciting, creative, challenging and versatile subject: one that universities and employers regard highly.
Engage actively in an exciting, creative, challenging and versatile subject: one that universities and employers regard highly.
This subject offers you the opportunity to
Course Content and Assessment
To take GCSE Music, you should also have regular weekly instrumental or vocal lessons. Students opting for GCSE Music need to be at least Grade 3 standard on their main instrument or voice before the start of the course. Knowledge of music theory is not essential but it is an advantage.
Performing Music (30%)
Two performances are required: one solo – at least one minute in length; one ensemble – at least one minute in length. You must perform for at least four minutes in total and you can perform in any style – from classical to thrash metal!
Composing Music (30%)
Two compositions: one where you are given a brief based on the Areas of Study; one is a free composition in a style you chose. You must compose for at least three minutes in total. You will use software such as Sibelius, GarageBand or Logic.
Listening and Appraising Music (40%)
The listening examination will develop your aural skills and understanding of music history. It is based on four Areas of Study, each with two set works. You will learn how to identify features of music from a variety of genres which will also develop your own composition skills:
- For 'Music for Stage and Screen,' students will study "Defying Gravity" from the musical "Wicked" and John Williams' "Main Title" from "Star Wars Episode IV," exploring the vibrant interplay between music and visual storytelling.
- In 'Instrumental Music 1700 - 1820,' the focus will be on classical masterpieces such as Bach's "Brandenburg Concerto No. 5" and Beethoven's "Pathetique," offering a deep dive into the music of the Baroque and Classical periods.
- 'Fusions' will introduce students to contemporary blends of traditional and modern music, featuring the Afro Celt Sound System's "Release" and Esperanza Spalding's "Samba Em Preludio."
- 'Vocal Music' will cover Purcell's "Music for a While" and Queen's "Killer Queen," showcasing the range and power of the human voice across genres and eras.
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