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GCSE Music (Eduqas)
GCSE Music (Eduqas)
The aim of this two-year course is to develop musical performance, composition, and understanding. It consists of the following components: performing music – 30%, composing music – 30% and understanding Music – 40%.
In addition to helping students acquire subject knowledge, the GCSE also provides students with the opportunity to gain self-confidence through performing on voice or an instrument of their choice, ranging from orchestral and wind instruments to voice, rock and pop instruments.
Students will develop team-working skills through performing with others, and will extend their creative skills through composing music. Students must be able to perform on an instrument or voice in order to study GCSE Music, and a minimum performance level equivalent to Grade 3 in Year 11 is recommended.
In the composing unit of GCSE Music, students complete two compositions; one to a set brief provided by the exam board, and one as a free composition. Compositions can be in any style or genre to best reflect the skills, strengths and interests of the individual student.
The final unit, Understanding Music, is assessed in an exam at the end of the course. This is based on listening to a mixture of previously studied as well as unknown works.
In addition to the merits of the GCSE course itself, our GCSE music students also benefit from excellent performing opportunities at external venues, most notably at the Hall for Cornwall.
5 Frequently Asked Questions
5 Frequently Asked Questions
Do I already need to play a musical instrument to take GCSE Music?
No, you can do GCSE Music as a singer, as long as you are a willing and confident performer. If you do play a musical instrument, then it is recommended that you would be able to perform a Grade 3 level piece by the time you are in Year 11. Ask your instrumental teacher for advice on whether this is likely. If you are below this level, you can still take GCSE Music - it just means you won't be able to get full marks in the performing area of the course.
I have not done much composing before. Is that a problem?
No, it's not a problem. This is the same for most students taking GCSE Music. A lot of time in class is spent on composition and the teacher will guide you through the process, providing feedback to help you improve your work.
Is there a lot of music theory involved?
The course is made up of 30% performing, 30% composing, and 40% listening. The listening part is similar to the type of questions you will have done in your end of year exams in Year 7-9. There is some theory involved in this, as well as knowledge of musical vocabulary, and recognising instruments. It obviously helps to have prior knowledge, but everything you need to know is covered in the course, so this is nothing to worry about.
Do I have to perform?
Yes, you need to do solo and ensemble performances. Therefore, if you are not comfortable performing, this may not be the right course choice for you.
What musical styles are covered in GCSE Music?
GCSE Music covers a broad range of musical styles; Western Classical, Pop, Rock, Bhangra, Fusion, Musical Theatre, Film Music, Jazz. Therefore, it is likely that you will already by familiar with some styles in the course, and will also learn about other styles you aren't as familiar with.
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