What topics will I study?

> Performing: learning to play pieces of music as a soloist and as part of a group on keyboard, singing or any other instrument that you may already play. > Composing: making up your own music in various styles using keyboards and computers, or other instruments as appropriate. > Listening: learning how to recognise features under the five areas of study headings in many different styles of music.

What kind of class activities will there be?

Music lessons are taught holistically and include practical performance work on a number of instruments, listening and appraising work, music theory, group composition and individual composition using music technology. In listening sessions you will hear a range of music from around the world with written exercises and discussions to help your understanding of the elements of music. It may also give you ideas for your own compositions.

What kind of homework assignments will there be?

Homework assignments are both practical and theoretical. You may be asked to research a period of musical history, complete a notation task or learn keywords associated with the course. You are asked to practise the instrument that you will offer as your solo performance regularly, which can be done at home or in the music department outside of your lesson time. Composition work has to be completed on our computers under controlled conditions, so we will sometimes ask you to spend time at lunch or after school developing ideas for that and we also set writing commentaries for your compositions as homework.

What percentage of the final GCSE grade is for coursework?

Unit 1: listening exam 20%; Unit 2: composing and appraising music 20%; Unit C: solo and group performance 40%; Unit 4: second composition 20%. (Coursework is 80% of final grade.)

What percentage of the final grade is for examinations at the end of Year 11?
The listening and appraising element is in the form of a 60 minute exam at the end of Year 11. This exam represents 20% of your final grade.

What are the most interesting parts of the GCSE course?

Much of the course is practical: there are regular opportunities to play music with others and to develop your own style of performance and composition. It enables you to write, perform and appreciate all styles of music, giving you a better understanding of how and why music is written and enabling you to imitate forms and genres. Much of the course is spent learning how to use music technology. The music department also expects contribution to extracurricular groups and whole-school performances.

Why would music be a useful course for me to take?

It can help you to qualify for a variety of higher education courses such as music, performing and expressive arts, music recording and production and vocational courses such as musical theatre. If you take lessons on an instrument, GCSE Music will support your progress on that instrument. If you have not previously learnt to play an instrument, you will be taught to play the electronic keyboard. Music is around us every day of our lives in one form or other; the GCSE course will give you an understanding of its place in society and how it has developed through history. Learning to play an instrument is like learning to ride a bike once conquered, it will remain with you all your life and give you enjoyment every time you try it.

Music Option