KS4 - GCSE Music

GCSE MUSIC

Course Leader – Miss S Ward

Why choose GCSE Music?

If you enjoy:

· Playing an instrument or singing (by yourself and in small groups)

· Composing using your own musical ideas

· Listening to and learning about a wide variety of Music

The GCSE music course builds on the knowledge and skills that you have already acquired in Listening, Composing and Performing during Key Stage 3. It is intended for the whole ability range and allows individual pupils to demonstrate their skills, knowledge and understanding at their own level.

Performing (Coursework)

You can demonstrate your performing skills by giving 2 performances: one solo and one ensemble.

To achieve grade C or above you need to be able to play/sing at a standard equivalent to Associated Board grades 3-4 by the end of the course.

You will choose the music that you are going to perform in consultation with your teachers and your performance may be recorded and assessed at any stage of the course.

Composing (Coursework)

You will create and develop your own musical ideas by composing your own pieces of music. You will record your compositions and present them in musical notation using Sibelius software.

Listening and Appraising (Examination)

You will deepen your knowledge of a wide range of musical styles and develop your listening skills by studying classical music, popular music and music from around the world.

All employers value musicians

When companies (or university/college course tutors) interview prospective employees (or students) they look for certain qualities of character. Musicians develop these qualities through their training and performance experiences. Musicians are considered to be highly motivated, creative, self-disciplined, persevering, responsible, loyal and skilled in organising their time.

Careers in Music

There are employment opportunities for musicians in the Media, the Recording Industry, Music Therapy, the Retail Trade, Musical Instrument Technology and, of course, Teaching and Performing.