Music (Single GCSE)

What are the Key Features?
The following areas are taught over the 2 years:
1. Music for film
• The Western: Landscapes and Peoples of the Americas
• Famous Classic Monster, Horror, Sci-fi, Fantasy, Thriller and Spy Films
2. Dance Music
• 17th-19th Century Dances
• 20th Century Dance Music
• 21st Century Club Scene
3. Music for Special Events
• Formal events (coronation, wedding, opera, national anthem etc.)
• Informal events (birthdays, New Year etc.)
4. Orchestral Landmarks
• A Small Classical Symphony
• An early 19th Century Work
• A Large Scale 19th and 20th Century Orchestral Work
5. Popular Song since 1960
This Area of study starts with the influence of the legendary Beatles and the Beach Boys. Then the candidate builds their knowledge through the decades bringing them up-to-date with the modelled musical genres used today.

How is the course taught?
• The candidates will attend music lessons 2-3 times a week. In lessons all the Areas of Study will be covered including listening exercises.
• The candidates choose an instrument at the beginning of yr 10; private lessons offered (teachers from Essex Music Service).
• Performance Assessments (solo and ensemble) throughout the course.

How is it assessed?
Performance – 25%. One solo and one ensemble performance.
Composition – 50%.
• Candidates are to write two original compositions. One based on the Area of Study: “Music for Special Events”. The style and genre for the other composition can be chosen freely by the candidate.
• Candidates need to compose a piece of music to a brief which is set by the exam board. This is called ‘Integrated Assignment’. A ½ hour external written examination will be set early May in which the candidates will assess how they did in their Integrated Assignment.
Listening and Appraising – 25%. A 1½ hour written examination.

Why study this course?
This course will give the candidates a good basic understanding about different styles of music, how to compose music and also how to recognise different musical devices through listening.