GCSE Music
The Music department currently offers AQA GCSE. It develops the students’ compositional, listening and performance ability with four units of work.
The course is split into four units covering the areas of composing, performing, listening and appraising. The composing, listening and appraising components cover five areas of study and they are: Popular Song since 1960, Music for Dance, Music for Film, Music for Special Events and Orchestral Landmarks.
The four units are:
- Composition Coursework Composing
Students learn to compose in a variety of styles and submit two compositions in their final composition portfolio, one of which must be based upon Music for Special Events. The student portfolios are internally assessed before being externally moderated. - Composition Integrated Assignment
Students compose a third piece as directed by AQA in the spring term. Where possible a recorded realisation of the piece must be submitted. There is a 30-minute exam where students answer questions about their composition in the final summer term. This composition is assessed as above. - Performance
In the performance element of the exam students perform two pieces of music, one solo performance and one ensemble performance. The performances are recorded in school and are assessed as above. - Listening and Appraising
This is a 75-minute exam at the end of the course. Students answer questions about recorded examples of music that come from all five areas of study.
During the course students receive free instrumental or singing lessons with the peripatetic music staff.
Directions at Post 16
AS/A2 Music
University to study Music Degree
Royal College of Music (London, Northern, Edinburgh)
Routes after Post 16
Music opens numerous doors. Play to your strengths.
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Please contact Mr Allen for further information.