Music

This is an exciting and rewarding GCSE course and gives pupils the opportunity to really understand how music from different genres is put together. Studying and analysing the music of others will then allow pupils to understand the techniques involved in creating their own compositions. This is an excellent platform for them to explore and improve their own creativity and musicality, through writing, performing and listening to music. Pupils receive three lessons per week which is divided into one composition lesson and two to focus on the analysis and listening element of the course. 

Where can this subject take you? 

GCSE Music is an exceptionally versatile qualification, highly regarded across a wide array of sectors, equipping pupils for success, whether they choose to pursue a creative career or a more traditional professional path. As an academic subject, its emphasis on analytical skills and discipline creates a well-rounded academic profile, making it a powerful complement to studies leading into competitive fields such as medicine, law and accountancy, alongside the numerous music-related employment opportunities, from being a musician, working in creative education and music therapy to careers in arts administration, film, tv theatre and radio. The transferable skills gained provide a solid foundation for any direction a young person might choose. 

Course Content/Structure 

Performance 30%:

Pupils will perform two pieces for their performance module. One will be a solo and the second a group performance. The preferred standard at the end of the course is approximately Grade IV-V Associated Board, Rockschool or equivalent, so pupils should aim to be around Grade II-III at the start of the course in order to achieve the higher grades, although this is not essential. 

Pupils will have regular monitoring of their practical work, and will be given an opportunity to perform one of their chosen pieces in lunchtime recitals held each term. It is recommended that pupils receive a weekly lesson on their instrument from either one of the Department’s peripatetic teachers, or from a teacher outside of the Department. 

Composition 30%:

Pupils will compose two pieces as coursework using the Noteflight software programme. One will be a free composition where they can choose and develop their own style. Pupils will begin this in Year 10 and it offers them the opportunity to study and write in a musical style that they enjoy. 

The other will be to a set brief, chosen from a choice of four set by the Examination Board. This will be started at the beginning of Year 11. 

Appraising 40%:

Pupils will learn and develop listening and appraising skills, gaining a much better understanding of how music is created and has been developed. This is achieved through the study of the following eight contrasting set works from four areas of study: 

• Instrumental Music 1700 – 1820: JS Bach 3rd Movement from Brandenburg Concerto No 5 in D major, Beethoven 1st Movement from the“Pathetique”piano sonata. 
• Vocal Music – Purcell: Music for a While, Queen: Killer Queen. Music for Stage and Screen – Schwartz: Defying Gravity (Wicked), John Williams: Main Title/rebel blockade runner (from the Star Wars Episode IV soundtrack). 
• Fusions – Afro Celt Sound System: Release, Esperanza Spalding: Samba Em Preludio. Each area of study also has Wider Listening. This consists of other related pieces that will be introduced and listened to throughout the course in order to gain further knowledge and understanding of each style. 

Assessment

The Performance and Composition modules are assessments of practical coursework and make up 60% of the course. This will allow pupils to demonstrate the musical skills and techniques they have gained throughout the course rather than just in one exam at the end. 

These two modules should be completed by the end of the Spring Term in Year 11. 

Knowledge, Understanding and Musicality will be tested in a final exam worth 40% of the course, lasting 1 hour 45 minutes, based on extracts of the eight set works, melodic and rhythmic dictation as well as a question on unfamiliar music. 

Pupils are required to write a comparison essay on a set work and an unfamiliar piece. 

Additional Information

Exam Board:
EDEXCEL GCSE

Head of Department:
Jack Henson (Acting) – jah@rydeschool.net