Music

Head of department: Mrs Love

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Content:

Music is a practically based course that explores a wide variety of musical styles and idioms through composing, listening and performing.

Activities:

Each pupil is expected to take part in a range of musical activities in class and at school performances.

Skills:

• Performing - pupils need a basic skill in one or more instruments which will be developed through solo and group performance.
• Composing - pupils will explore a variety of forms and styles as well as mediums through creative skills.
• ICT – pupils will develop an understanding of and use Sibelius and Cubase to further develop composition work.
• Listening and Writing – pupils will study 12 set works across a wide range of musical styles from the 17th century to the 20th century, 20th century composition techniques, dance music and world music. Pupils will answer short multiple choice questions through to longer essay style questions based on the set works.

Homework activities:

• Composing coursework will be set in half termly modules and is expected to be developed.
• Research on topics being discussed within class and tests on key words.
• Continual development of instrumental skills.

Assessed Coursework:

Paper 1 (30%) – performances will take place throughout the course with a final assessment of 1 solo and 1 ensemble piece.

Paper 2 (30%) - composing - composing coursework file consisting of 2 best pieces to be assessed, from different areas of study.

Examination details:

Paper 3 (40%) listening and appraising - a written examination based on the 12 set works, played on CD.

Examination entry requirements:

• Pupils should have a keen interest in their music and an interest to explore a variety of styles.
• An ability on a chosen instrument/having instrumental lessons.

Revision advice:

This course will require regular revision. A continual expansion of pupils' knowledge of music and musical vocabulary can be extended through listening and performing.

Parental contribution:

Parental encouragement is important in the development of the pupil's instrumental development. The encouragement to listen to a wide variety of musical styles will develop pupils' musical understanding.

Useful resources and equipment:

Pupils will require an instrument on which they are already receiving tuition - or intend doing so. It is also helpful to have some form of keyboard for working on their composing coursework.