Music

Those with a desire in music should explore the many exciting opportunities that GCSE Music provides. Students are able to perform music they like, compose their own music, and critically analyse a variety of different types of music throughout the course. GCSE Music is designed in a way which enables students of all abilities to become successful and musical, developing their understanding of music theory and practical skills along the way. It is a very practical course with a large emphasis on non-examined assessment (60% in total), making the subject relaxing and contrasting to others which can be studied. At the end of the course, pupils will have developed their understanding and appreciation of all music genres/topics studied.

The course is made  up of 60% coursework and 40% examination and is broken down into the following units:

• Unit One: Understanding Music -  90-minute listening exam (40%)

The Areas of Study looked at are: Western Classical Tradition, Popular Music, Traditional Music, Art Music since 1910

• Unit Two: Performance - 2 Performances (One solo, One ensemble) to be recorded (30%)

• Unit Three: Composition - 2 Compositions created (30%)

Throughout the course the emphasis is on the three components that make up GCSE Music:

Performance, composition, and listening skills.

Lessons consist of a number of different activities to help students to fulfil their potential in music with all learning styles being catered for.

Directly, this course provides a stable foundation for those who wish to pursue Music post-16. A-Level and Level 3 Music courses usually require GCSE Music as an entry requirement. The course is also excellent preparation for those pursuing music-related careers such as teaching, professional musician, music technician, music producer, composer, music journalist, music therapist….

Indirectly, this course develops many transferable skills which Universities/ Colleges/ Employers favour. Involvement in music-making develops skills such as practice discipline, listening skills, analytical skills, creative thinking, organisation skills, performance skills (such as public speaking) to name just a few. These can be demonstrated through involvement in extracurricular musical activities, or by taking GCSE Music.