Music (GCSE)
This is one of the options offered by the Music Department.
Student who chose this option will take the qualification WJEC-Eduqas GCSE Music
Please note that this subject has similarities with Music (BTEC). You cannot choose both GCSE Music and BTEC Music.
Course Description
For GCSE Music, we study the Eduqas exam board, you will be assessed on three areas:
Understanding Music (40%)
This involves studying different styles of music, learning keywords which can describe music and completing a listening exam, where you will have 8 pieces of music and have to answer questions about them. The areas of study include, classical music, jazz, musicals, film music and popular music.
Performing Music (30%)
You must play an instrument or sing for GCSE. For your assessment you must perform at least two pieces, or possibly more, which last for at least 4 minutes in total. At least one of the performances must be in a group. These will be recorded in Year 11. In order to prepare you must be practicing your instrument regularly, and you will have lessons in school from our specialist teachers.
Composing Music (30%)
Composing means creating your own music. You must create two pieces; one complete in Year 10 can be in any style of your choosing. The composition completed in Year 11 will be a piece to match one of four options set by the exam board. You will spend time in lesson, learning the theory and understanding behind how to create a song and have time to practice this skill in Year 9.
Who would this course be suitable for?
You must play an instrument or sing to be able to access this course.
You must be willing to practice your instrument regularly
You should have an interest in music and want to learn the theory behind the notes
You might be a creative person and enjoy expressing yourself
Home learning will be crucial to success in GCSE Music
What is GCSE Music?
Mr Stannard, our Head of Music, explains.
