Higher

Learners undertake bespoke units of work, designed from the SQA Course guidelines.

Some learners progress to Higher Music having studied N5 Music, while others enter the subject in S5 or S6, or after studying it in S3.

All learners undertake core learning experiences with units of work for the Understanding Music component, with differentiated activities to cater for a range of knowledge and skill levels. There are opportunities for personalisation and choice in the Performing and Assignment components.

Taking assessment evidence into account and in consultation with experienced staff, learners are entered for the level of study that is most suited for them to achieve a full course award.

Performing

Developing performing skills on two selected instruments (or one instrument + voice), through regular practice and self-reflection.

Assignment

Experimenting with and using music concepts in creative ways within a range of compositional methods, composing original music and self-reflecting on creative choices.

Understanding Music

Through listening, developing knowledge and understanding of a variety of music styles, level-specific concepts, signs and symbols used in music notation.

2 instruments
or
1 instrument + voice

Grade 4+ standard

2+ contrasting pieces

12 minute programme (SQA Visiting Assessor)

Instrument 1: 30 marks
Instrument 2: 30 marks

50%
of total Course Award

1 composition

1 min - 3.5 mins

Showing creativity and effective development of ideas in at least three musical elements:

Melody
Harmony
Rhythm
Timbre
Structure

Reflecting on and evaluating their final submission.

Externally marked

Composition: 20 marks
Review: 10 marks

15%
of total Course Award

Written question paper analysing excerpts of audio

1 hour

Externally marked

40 marks

35%
of total Course Award

Course Overview

Higher Music

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