GCSE Music 

SPECIFICATION

The Course consists of three Components. 

1.     Music Performance (30%) – Internally Assessed 

2.    Music Composition (30%) – Internally Assessed 

3.    Final Listening exam (40%) – Externally Assessed 

Component 1

‘Performance’ based coursework - You are required to perform a ‘solo’ piece and an ‘ensemble’ piece, with a combined total of 4 minutes duration. These are each worth 15% of the final grade. 

Solo performance deadline – Christmas of Y11

Ensemble performance deadline – February Half-term of Y11

Component 2

‘Composition’ based coursework. -  You are required to make effective use of the elements of music and develop two compositions, with a combined total of three minutes duration.  These are each worth 15% of the final grade. 

Composition 1 – response to one choice of brief set by the exam board during September of Y11.

Composition 2 – free composition.

Component 3

One hour listening exam, which will test your aural skills and knowledge of the set works.  This exam takes place at the end of the course (summer 2027) and forms 40% of your final grade.

Set works are:

Area of Study 1

Set study: J S Bach, Badinerie – 1 question

Musical Forms and Devices – 1 question

Area of Study 2

 Music for ensembles – 2 questions

Area of Study 3

 Film Music – 2 questions

Area of Study 4

 Set study: Toto, Africa – 1 question

 Popular Music – 1 question

Students will be given revision materials and their class folder on Teams will contain useful materials, including revision papers and practice listening resources.  All grading criteria for performance and composition will also be shared with students via Teams and OneNote.

For further information and to discuss the suitability of this option please contact Mrs J Rose (teacher of Music) via the school office.