Music

Assessment

The course offers a variety of alternatives which enable students to submit work demonstrating their strengths in the subject. There are three units of study. External assessments take place in May of Year 13. In units 1 and 2 Students may opt for Option A or B. This flexibility means they can gain up to 35% in the option for higher study and 25% in the option where they choose the smaller amount of study. Unit 1: Performing (35% or 25%) - Here 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) Unit 2: Composing (25% or 35%) - 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. Unit 3: Listening and Appraising (40%)- 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.