Music
Head of Department: Miss E Sees
If you choose to study Music in Year 10, you will develop your existing knowledge and understanding of some of general music theory, explore the art of performance and use your creativity to compose your own music both individually and in groups.
What will I study
Indicative course content includes:
- Brit Pop Music- the origins, how it developed and song writing in this genre
- Baroque Music- Performing the classic “Canon” piece as a class and exploring the techniques associated with the style through listening activities
- A basic introduction to ABRSM Music theory (grade 1 and 2 level)
In year 10 and 11 you will study 2 set works which are set by the exam board. These are currently Badinerie by Bach and ‘Africa’ by Toto
Your curriculum will be planned to include the exploration of the three areas that underpin GCSE Music, which are Listening, Performing and Composition. There will be lots of opportunity for you to develop your skills as a musician throughout the course and plenty of opportunity to perform your work to your peers.
How will I be assessed?
Throughout the course you will be assessed, in year 9, each half term with an assessment which will be rooted in composition and performance. Students will receive a grading in line with GCSE requirements and feedback with targets for improvement. During year 10 and 11 students will complete coursework, which will be officially marked. By the end of year 11 students will need to have produced 4 pieces of coursework- 2 compositions and 2 performances.
Anything else I need to know
Music requires: Students who are considering taking up GCSE Music MUST be currently learning an instrument (including the voice) and striving towards an expected level of grade 3 by the time they reach Easter of year 11. It is also expected that Music students are involved in the musical life of the school and are ambassadors of their subject. Students, who choose GCSE Music, will receive a 20 minute Music lesson each week to help them develop and perfect their craft. It is expected that students will attend this and devote a minimum of 45 minutes practice a week.
Music is an enjoyable subject which allows students to be creative and free. It is also very academic with the theory of music being explored in great depth! It is a lovely subject to learn about and teaches students the art of leadership, creativity, individuality, confidence as well as the art of performance. If you enjoy learning about music as well as performing it, then this will be a subject that you will excel in!
