H Music

This course is suitable for learners who wish to:

• broaden their knowledge and understanding of music and musical literacy by listening to music and identifying level-specific music concepts, signs and symbols

• create original music using compositional methods

• perform music

• Level 5 Music

• Equivalent qualification / experience

Question paper (35%)

Candidates draw on skills in listening; knowledge and understanding of level-specific music concepts, music literacy and analysis of music.

Assignment (15%)

The assignment requires pupils to compose a piece of music. Pupils should use at least three of the following elements of music; melody, harmony, rhythm, timbre and structure. A compositional reflection is also required which should detail key decisions made and reflect on how to improve.

Performance (50%) 12 minutes on 2 instruments

Pupils must create a programme at a Higher level (grade 4 ABRSM equivalent). The following

aspects of performance are assessed:

- melodic accuracy and/or intonation

- rhythmic accuracy

- maintaining tempo and flow of the music

- conveying mood and character

- instrumental or vocal tone

- dynamics

• Listening Paper (exam paper) 35% - 1 hour

• Composition (in class) 15% - create a piece of music between 1 & 3 minutes

• Performance (to visiting SQA examiner) - 12 minutes on 2 instruments

The course may provide progression to:

• Advanced Higher Music

• National 5/Higher Music Technology

• Further study, employment and/or training

Music develops and enhances a vast amount of skills for life and desired employability attributes. These can include;

• strong listening skills

• performing under pressure, and in-front of an audience

• public speaking

• creativity skills

• organisational skills

• independent learning skills.