Higher Music

Course Description

This course allows you to develop and consolidate practical skills in performing and creating music, while developing a detailed understanding of a range of music styles and concepts.

You will get the opportunity to perform a variety of challenging music in solo and/or group settings, using your own voice or your selected instrument(s). You will develop detailed knowledge and understanding of music concepts and musical literacy. You will recognise and distinguish between a wide range of music signs, symbols and music concepts as you perform, create and listen to music.

The skills you learn on this course not only make a valuable contribution to your general education and personal development but also allow you to develop the skills and knowledge required to proceed to further study and/or follow a career in music. 

Recommended Entry

Pupils would normally be expected to have passed National 5 music or relevant component units. It is recommended that any pupil who has no experience of music in the Junior Phase and/or does not have National 5, to be proficient on two instruments, or one instrument and voice, at Grade 4  level or above in order to be able to perform a programme of 12 minutes in length.

Course Content

The course consists of three elements.

1. Performing Skills

Learners develop performing skills on two selected instruments or one instrument and voice.

2. Composing Skills

Learners experiment with, and creatively use complex compositional methods and music concepts at Higher level to realise their intentions when creating original music.

 3. Understanding Music

Through listening, learners will develop detailed knowledge and understanding of a range of complex music concepts and music literacy.

Assessment

At Higher level external assessment consists of:

1. a final Listening exam, in which you will be asked to identify specific features and answer questions focusing on music literacy. (35%)

2. a live performance to a Visiting Examiner during February or March. (15%)

• You will perform on your chosen 2 instruments or instrument/voice for 12 minutes with a minimum of 2 minutes on any one instrument. 

• The performance may be either solo and/or in a group.

3. an original composition which will be sent to SQA for external marking. (15%)