Higher/Advanced HIgher

Music is a practical, hands on subject that develops your imagination and creativity. It helps you to develop important skills such as:

• Playing a musical instrument

• Communication

• Creative thinking

• Using your voice

• Composing

You will also learn about different genres of music and develop you knowledge and understanding of a range of music concepts and literacy.

My learning:

What will be different in S5/6?

· There will be four lessons a week.

· You will focus on two instruments/voice of your choice and learn a range of music on each instrument.

· You will learn to create original music using compositional methods and develop your music literacy skills.

· You will learn about different musical styles and the basics of reading and writing music.

· You will complete SQA units and participate in formal SQA assessments

How will I learn?

· You will be practicing individually and performing music in a group.

· Active learning will take place in all lessons

· You will complete self and peer evaluations for next steps.

How will I know I am progressing?

· You can sing/play different styles of music confidently.

· You can identify features in music and can comment constructively on the work of others.

· You can use technology to compose

· You will discuss with your teacher your achievements and steps for improvement.

· You will set yourself targets.

How can I take this course forward?

· Advanced Higher music is offered in S6

What are the possible career opportunities from this course?

· Music teacher, performer or composer. It would also help to get into Theatre /TV, sound engineering and music production.

What will my home learning commitment be?

· If possible, practicing your instruments at home. If this is not possible, the department is available at lunch and after school for extra practice. You will also need to revise all musical concepts covered in class.

EXAM

• Listening question paper in main diet of exams - 40 marks

• External Performance exam for Higher – February / March - 60 marks

• External Performance exam for Advanced Higher – May - 60 marks

• Level you need to be for Higher

• Grade 4

• Performance program on 2 instruments or 1 instrument and voice

• 10 minute program comprising:

  • Minimum 4 minutes on one instrument ( e.g. 4&6, 5&5)

  • Minimum 2 pieces on each instrument

• Level you need to be for Advanced Higher

• Grade 5

• Performance program on 2 instruments or 1 instrument and voice

• 16 minute program comprising:

  • Minimum 5 minutes on one instrument ( e.g. 5 & 11, 6 & 10, 7 & 9, 8 & 8)

  • Minimum 2 pieces on each instrument