FAQs

Why should I study GCSE Music?

GCSE music involves written, analytical, practical and social/personal skills such as: independent learning, team working, performance and presentation skills, listening, confidence and self-esteem, creativity and self-expression. Colleges, Universities and employers are all looking for these skills in their applicants and you develop them all by studying music. Although it can be hard work, music is a very creative subject and can be lots of fun!

What specification do we follow in GCSE Music?

We will follow the EDUQAS GCSE Music. For access to the full specification please follow the link. 

https://www.eduqas.co.uk/media/by5boopf/eduqas-gcse-music-spec-from-2016-d.pdf 

Who will teach me GCSE Music?

You will be taught by your Music specialist teachers in both Year 10 and Year 11. This will provide you with a consistent and familiar approach throughout your GCSE course. 

How will I be assessed in GCSE Music?

There are three main areas of assessment in GCSE Music: Performing, Composing and Appraising. You will do two performances, one solo and one ensemble and this is worth 30% of the final mark. You will write two compositions, one free and one from a brief and these are worth 30% of the final mark. You will also have a listening exam at the end of Year 11 and this is worth 40% of the final mark. 

Is there a written exam for GCSE Music?

There is a listening paper of approximately 1hr 15mins at the end of Year 11 which covers the four main areas of study you will learn throughout the course. There are 8 questions and they are mostly either multiple choice or short answer questions. 2 of the questions will be on the set works you will learn about during the course. There is one long answer question which can be answered in bullet points. We spend lots of time developing your exam technique. 

Will I have to do much writing in GCSE Music?

There is some writing involved, particularly for homework and exam question practice, but you won't have to write essays in the exam 

Will I need to be able to play an instrument to take GCSE Music?

It is very useful to be able to play an instrument for GCSE music. 30% of the final mark is based on your performing skills and the minimum standard expected is grade 3 on any instrument by the start of Year 11.  You are expected to be able to perform on your instrument. We do not teach you how to play an instrument as part of the course. 

Is GCSE Music just playing/ singing or will I get to study other aspects of music?

In addition to those skills you will develop your composition skills (writing music) and also your listening skills and we explore a wide range of different genres of music throughout the course: 

• Area of study 1: Musical Forms and Devices 

• Area of study 2: Music for Ensemble 

• Area of study 3: Film Music 

• Area of study 4: Popular Music.

Will I get to experience live professional performances during the course?

You will perform for your peers in lessons and in school events throughout the course. If possible we will arrange appropriate trips to venues to see what different careers in the performing arts look like.  

How much of my grade is performance based?

30% of the overall grade is performance based, including both solo and ensemble performances. 

Can I still take GCSE Music if I'm not a confident performer?

You can, as not every musician is a confident performer. However you must be prepared to perform as part of the course. 

Do I have to have my own instrument at home?

Ideally you will have access to your instrument to practice at home. We do not teach you how to play an instrument as part of the course and you will be expected to practice in your own time as we do not have enough learning time to allow lots of practice time within lessons. 

Do I have to be able to read music?

You do not have to be able to read music to take GCSE music as we will be teaching everyone aspects of music theory which are relevant to the course. 

Am I allowed to choose more than 1 Performing Arts subject for my GCSE options? 

Yes. You are being given 2 free option choices, although you will choose 4 initially. This is to ensure that you have a backup option should one of your chosen options not run. The free choice and no option blocks will allow you to select more than 1 Performing Arts subject should you wish. 

How can I succeed in GCSE Music?

In order to be a successful GCSE Music student all you need is enthusiasm, creativity, resilience, determination, independence, curiosity, empathy, confidence and be willing to embrace challenge!

You will be provided with all of the necessary resources to support you but ultimately it will be down to you to make the most of them. Your teacher will do everything they can to facilitate your learning but the responsibility to take on board and apply advice is ultimately down to you.

You will need to be prepared to spend some time, out of lessons, consolidating the learning that has occurred in class and revisiting terminology, listening & practical skills regularly.  You will also need to be willing to meet with your  ensemble groups regularly to ensure your performances are refined and performance ready. You will also need to spend independent time working on your own individual performance pieces. 

What can I do once I have completed the course?

People with performing arts skills and knowledge usually have an advantage over people without them. They stand out as talented, confident and creative people, with broad and exciting horizons. Taking GCSE Music means you will:

• Add an extra dimension to your personal skills profile which will impress anyone who reads your CV 

• Have the confidence to push yourself out of your comfort zone and experience new opportunities

• Be able to study AS, A level and Vocational Music courses to further your knowledge of the subject