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MUSIC
EXAMINATION BOARD
:
Edexcel
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF COURSE
The course aims to develop a high degree of skill, knowledge and understanding in the three principal areas
of Performing, appraising and Composing. It is expected that by the second term of Year 11 candidates will
be capable of performing satisfactorily on their chosen musical instrument or voice at approximately Grade
3 standard. This element of the course is teacher assessed and does not require the student to take an
external practical examination.
There are four areas of study:
•
Instrumental Music 1700 – 1820
•
Vocal Music
•
Music for Stage and Screen
•
Fusions
METHODS OF ASSESSMENT
Part or component
Requirements
Mode of assessment
Weighting
Paper 1: Performing
Solo performing
Ensemble performing
•
Candidates will perform one
solo piece
•
Candidates will perform/direct
one ensemble piece
15% internally assessed/
externally moderated
15% internally assessed/
externally moderated
30%
Paper 2: Composing
Composition 1
Composition 2
•
One composition to a brief set
by Pearson, of at least one
minute in duration.
•
One free composition set by
the student, of at least one
minute in duration.
15% internally assessed/
externally moderated
15% internally assessed/
externally moderated
30%
Paper 3: Appraising
•
Written examination
•
1 hour 45 minutes
•
Section A – Areas of study,
dictation, and unfamiliar pieces
•
Section B – Extended response
comparison between a set
work and one unfamiliar piece
40% externally
assessed
40%
All students are required to submit two compositions which they have composed or arranged themselves
throughout the course. The work will be teacher assessed and externally moderated.
ENTRY INFORMATION
This is an open entry subject with no higher/lower tiers. All students will attempt common examination
papers, which will contain questions of graded difficulty requiring answers of varying lengths.
CAREERS
A knowledge and understanding of music can enhance the quality of life, regardless of one’s career. Music
engenders the qualities of maturity, analytical thinking and self-discipline, all sought after in many aspects of
life. Possible careers after studying GCSE Music include: Teaching, Journalism, Performing, Composing, Music
Marketing, Entertainment Law, Music Production and Advertising.
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