Music

Course summary

Performing: Students have the opportunity to perform both as a soloist and in ensembles. Performances can take place on any instrument, including voice. A recital is prepared for Year 13 and should last either for six to eight minutes (Option A) or twelve to fifteen minutes (Option B). Composing: Students are required to compose two pieces. One from a brief set by the board and one working from their own brief. For option A an extension to their composing comprises of four part harmony and two part counterpoint. Listening: This work is undertaken through the study of four areas. Areas 1 and 2 are compulsory and a further two are selected from areas 3-6. They are 1: Instrumental Music of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven; 2: Popular Song: Blues, Jazz, Swing and Big Band; 3: Developments in Instrumental Jazz from 1910 to the present day; 4: Religious Music of the Baroque period; 5: Programme Music; 6: Innovations in Music 1900 to the present day