Choosing your programme for the Middle Years 2024

GCSE Music

WHAT WILL YOU STUDY IN THIS COURSE

You will learn the history behind four very different styles of music: classical, modern classical, pop and rock, and world music. You will develop your listening skills through studying eight set works of very different styles so you can express what you hear in words and understand how the sound of music has changed over time.

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

As well as critical listening and expressive skills, you will develop your skills as a performer and a composer.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

There is one final written exam on Music History (40%) and two pieces of coursework: performing (30%) and composing (30%). You will submit recordings of two performances given throughout the course, one as a soloist and one in an ensemble.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

This is for anyone who plays a musical instrument to any level. For performance, the exam board expects a standard equivalent to Grade 4 on average (you don’t need to have taken the exam). You should be studying an instrument or music tech with one of our instrumental teachers throughout the course.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

Critical and analytical writing are important skills that can be applied to any subject area; but we hope that talented musicians will continue to study academic music in Sixth Form and beyond. Please note that Music is also available via the Music Technology and Popular Music Pathway – and it is possible to take both. Please speak to the Head of Academic Music for advice on which course or courses would be most appropriate for you.

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