Aims of the Course

GCSE in Music provides an accessible and creative musical education, integrating the three main components : performing, composing and appraising. Students broaden their musical horizons within five areas of study as they explore musical context, language, performance and composition.

General Description

OCR’s GCSE (9–1) in Music requires learners to practically apply knowledge and understanding. The course provides a contemporary, accessible and creative education in Music with an integrated approach to the three main elements performing, composing and appraising.

Learners will also need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the musical elements, musical contexts and musical language, and apply these to their own work when performing and composing.

Learners are encouraged to be as creative as possible and to broaden their musical horizons and understanding with Areas of Study that inspire and challenge.

This course will enable learners to explore performance and composition with a focus on their own instrument and genre choices and offer opportunity to explore new instrumental skills.

OCR’s GCSE (9–1) in Music is designed to appeal to, and cater for, a wide range of interests, instruments, personalities and directions. Learners will have the opportunity to explore instruments and Areas of Study depending on their personal preference and ability.

Students will study five Areas of Study:

• Area of Study 1: My Music

• Area of Study 2: The Concerto Through Time

• Area of Study 3: Rhythms of the World

• Area of Study 4: Film Music

• Area of Study 5: Conventions of Pop

This course gives the learners the best of both musical worlds. Being able to learn and perform an instrument and the opportunity to be able to compose their own music.

Assessment

Component 1 - 30%

• Performance on the learner’s chosen instrument.

• Composition to a brief set by the learner.

Component 2 - 30%

• Ensemble performance.

• Composition to an OCR set brief.

Component 3 - 40%

• Listening and appraising. A written paper, with CD. Aural recognition and context unheard/unfamiliar music from within the Areas of Study 2, 3, 4 & 5.