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Why should I choose Music?
GCSE Music is not just for students who are considering specialising in music and neither is it solely aimed at those with a classical training; GCSE Music is for everyone. For someone who has talent as a performer, who enjoys composing their own music, who is interested in music technology or who simply enjoys music of any description, GCSE Music offers a way to develop their potential and ultimately to achieve a worthwhile qualification.
You will have the opportunity to:
• develop the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to communicate effectively as a musician;
• develop awareness of music technologies and their use in creating and presenting music;
• reflect critically on your own work and the work of others; and
• progress to further study and/or employment.
What will I study?
The GCSE course is based around three Areas of Study:
Composing
Performing
Listening
Students will have the opportunity to hear, explore and analyse music from a wide variety of styles including;
Western Classical Music 1600-1900
Film Music
Musical Traditions of Ireland
Popular Music 1980-Present Day
How will I be assessed in this subject?
Listening (35%)
In the listening paper, students are tested on their knowledge of musical styles through listening. They will be asked questions on the set pieces and on other music related to the Areas of Study.
Composing (30%)
Throughout the course, students will compose two pieces. One is free choice and one is chosen from a stimulus sent out by CCEA in the second year of their course.
Performing (35%)
Students have a practical exam consisting of one sol plus one ensemble. Students can perform on any instrument in any given style. Students should aim to be grade 3 standard by the end of the course. They can submit a lower or higher grade programme however.
What career pathways are available to me if I study this subject?
This course will enable you to go onto study Music at AS and A2 Level. It can also lead to a career in Teaching, Musical Theatre, Media, Music Therapy, Instrument making and repair, Sound Engineering and Radio and Television work
Extra Curricular Activities
If you choose GCSE Music, you could take part in the following activities;
School Choir
Musical ensembles for Junior and Senior Prize-giving
Carol Service
Irish Traditional Group
Performances for the elderly in the community at Christmas
Barbershop
School masses
Option of taking graded practical and theory of music exams
School musicals
Student Testimonials
Having enjoyed music from a young age, I felt a natural desire to study the subject at GCSE and A-Level in St. Malachy’s.
What I hadn’t realised was that it wasn’t simply about the practical side of things, but it also covered a much wider array of musical styles and genres from many different eras.
My favourite part of studying music was all of it! I was so lucky to have just started my journey when the lovely Mrs. Magee started in St. Malachy’s, all the way back in 2005!! The fun that came with the learning made our compact class so enjoyable and we all became great friends.
The confidence I have gained since beginning my journey in that class has grown immensely. Over the years I have continued to develop my ability on and off stage. Proud moments like starring in ‘The Sound of Music’, studying Music at University level, singing in many amazing venues as part of the university choir, the biggest being the Royal Albert Hall in London as part of the BBC Proms.
Music has remained a part of me, not only helping develop my abilities but also helping me to develop as a person. It is not only a subject but a major part of my life.
My career isn’t totally based around music currently, but it has led me on to this particular path. I am a Play Specialist with the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. I also provide therapeutic sessions for the families who attend Daisy Lodge for short breaks and I also have a side line business singing at weddings.
I would advise any pupil who has an interest in music to seriously consider it. It’s not an easy route and requires a lot of hard work and dedication but if the willingness is there, then why not?
Martina Carvill, Past Pupil
I have played Irish Traditional Music from the age of 6, starting with the Tin Whistle and then moving to the Concertina at the age of 11.
I thoroughly enjoyed music in school and it was a subject I looked forward to going to every week.
It was because of this that I chose to study music for GCSE and A-level. GCSE and A-level music introduced me to different genres of music, various composers, the different periods of music and the history behind them.
Studying music for GCSE and A-level required a lot of commitment and hard work but Mrs Magee and Miss McErlane were always there to offer support and encouragement. My favourite aspect of music was performing with the Irish Traditional Group, School Choir, Barbershop and being able to represent my school with such pride at various occasions.
Despite having enjoyed music so much, I chose to study Chemistry at University. Even though I did not complete a music related degree, I continue to play and teach Irish Music.
Music is something that I know I will never lose, along with the memories I made in the Music Department in St Malachy’s.
Niamh Howell, Past Pupil
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