Music

Music

Exam board: Edexcel
Course code:
1MU0

http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/music-2016.html

For further information, please contact: Mrs C Whitehead: [email protected]

 

This course is designed for anyone who has enjoyed music at Key Stage 3 and has a strong commitment to performing, composing and listening to different types of music.  During the course students perform music, develop composing skills and learn about a wide variety of music styles from different times and places.  Students are required to perform to the standard of approximately Grade 4 ABRSM (Associated Board Royal Schools of Music) or equivalent by the end of Year 11.  Any instrument, including singing, and any style of music is permissible. 

Subject Content and Assessment

Students are assessed in each of the three skills as follows:

Performing: (30%)

Students need to produce 4 minutes worth of music, which must include at least one solo and one ensemble piece. Music performed should be of approximately grade 4 standard minimum.

Composing: (30%)

Students need to produce two compositions, one of which is set by the board and one of which is set by them.  Each composition must be a minimum of one minute long and the total portfolio must be at least 3 minutes long.

Appraising: (40%)

Students study music relating to four different areas of study, each of which contains 2 set works as follows:

Instrumental music:

  • J S Bach: 3rd Movement from Brandenburg Concerto no. 5 in D major
  • L Van Beethoven: 1st Movement from Piano Sonata no. 8 in C minor ‘Pathetique’

Vocal music:

  • H Purcell: Music for a While
  • Queen: Killer Queen (from the album ‘Sheer Heart Attack’)

Music for stage and screen:

  • S Schwartz: Defying Gravity (from the album of the cast recording of Wicked)
  • J Williams: Main title/rebel blockade runner (from the soundtrack to Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope)

Fusions:

  • Afro Celt Sound System: Release (from the album Volume 2: Release)
  • Esperanza Spalding: Samba Em Preludio (from the album Esperanza)

Students are examined on these at the end of Year 11, and will also be expected to compare the pieces to unfamiliar music.

Higher Education and Careers

Music GCSE is essential for those who wish to study the subject at A Level and beyond and it is useful for those wishing to pursue performing arts and related subjects.  In addition, it adds a creative element to the curriculum.  The ideal student for this course is one who is open minded, enjoys all types of music and has a love of playing music or singing.