National 5 Music

Course Description

This course is intended for pupils who wish to develop overall musicianship as performers, composers and listeners.

This aim is served by three elements: Performing, Composing and Listening.

Through these activities, pupils will develop their vocal and instrumental skills, explore sounds and musical concepts, and use their imagination and skills to create musical ideas and compositions.

You can further develop your understanding and capacity to enjoy music through listening to musical performances and commenting on them. You will use ICT to realise or enhance your composition and performance and to promote your understanding of how music works. Music – National 5

You will develop performing skills in solo and/or group settings on two selected instruments or one instrument and voice. The minimum standard of piece to be performed is ABRSM Grade 3 (or equivalent) for National 5. 

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 will experiment with and use compositional methods and music concepts in imaginative ways when creating their own music.

3. Understanding Music

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

Assessment

At National 5 the external assessment consists of:

1. a final listening exam in which students will be asked to identify specific features and answer questions focusing on music literacy. This is worth 35% of the overall final grade.

2. a live performance to a Visiting Examiner during February or March. 

• You will perform on your chosen 2 instruments or instrument/voice for 8 minutes with a minimum of 2 minutes on any one instrument. 

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

• This is worth 50%.

3. an original composition, which will be sent to SQA for external marking. This is worth 15%.

Progression

From National 5 to Higher.