Year 9 Choices
Music
Eduqas GCSE Music
Do you enjoy all styles of music? Are you interested in how pieces of music from all time period and countries are constructed? Do you enjoy playing an instrument? Then GCSE Music may be for you. The course is 60% coursework and 40% exam.
The Coursework
Component 1: Performance
30% of the qualification
Deadline of February of Year 11
Audio recording only
One solo and one ensemble (group) performance
Grade 3 standard
You will be expected to show:
- technical control
- expression and appropriate interpretation
- accuracy of rhythm and pitch
- appropriate pace and fluency
- effective use of dynamics
- stylistic awareness
- empathy (in ensemble playing).
Component 2: Composition
30% of the qualification
Deadline of May of Year 11
Internally assessed
Audio recording and score or screenshots
Composition 1 following one of the four briefs released in September of year 11 linking to the areas of study.
Composition 2is a free composition usually started in year 10.
Total portfolio is 4-6 minutes.
The Exam
40% of final qualification
1 hour 15 minute listening exam
8 questions including the two set work pieces below.
Over the course you will look at the following areas of study and they will all b included in the exam.
- Musical Forms and Devices
This involves studying music in the Western Classical tradition from 1650-1910 including the set work of ‘Badinerie’ by J.S.Bach. A set work is a piece you study before the exam and answer questions about it already knowing everything.
- Music For Ensemble
Ensemble means group. You will study music groups including chamber music, musical theatre, jazz and blues (which we have done in KS3!)
- Film Music
You will study how instruments, tone colour and volume changes are used in film to manipulate how the listener feels.
- Popular Music
You will study pop, rock, Bhangra and fusion to understand how pieces are structured and sound in these genres. This includes the set work of ‘Africa’ by Toto
Through studying this course you can choose to take music further specialising in Performance, Production, Composition or even Musical Theatre at a local college or Sixth Form at Level 3.
Studying Music can lead to a career in the UK’s vibrant music industry, where there is a variety of job roles, either on stage or behind the scenes.
Crucially, by studying Music students learn key skills that are vital for any career – especially creativity and communication, which are stated time and time again as key traits that employers in every industry are looking for.
There is a wide variety of careers in the UK’s Music Industry, not all to do with performing. These include:
- Music Performer
- Session Musician
- Music Producer
- Studio Engineer
- Sound Technician
- Music Teacher
- Songwriter
- Composer (e.g. Film or Computer Games)
- Music Therapist
- Music Journalist
- Broadcaster
- Promotions/Marketing
- A&R Representative
Performance are audio recordings and come be done as many times needed for the best outcome. The class teacher marks it and it is moderated by the exam board.
Compositions are audio recordings and screenshots or the score is provided. These are internally assessed and moderated by the exam board.
The exam is externally assessed and marked by an examiner.
Students picking Music need to have a passion for the whole subject and a desire to learn more about it and develop all skills needed.
Students must have basic skills on at least one instrument (including vocals) as well as the willingness to practice daily to improve their skills.
All students must have good standards of literacy and ICT to complete written and computer-based composition work.
Good attendance will be needed to ensure you don’t miss on learning and are prepared for the assessment that takes place over a lot of lesson time. All material covered could be on the exam.
