Students are encouraged to use music-related ICT and GCSE students are often to be found involved in the many co-curricular activities of the school. Individual instrumental teachers provide a valuable input into the performing sections of the course. Exam Format Section 1: Performing Candidates must give at least one solo performance lasting at least 90 seconds and at least one ensemble performance lasting at least one minute. These have no audience and are recorded. This section is worth 30% of the total GCSE Grade. Section 2: Composing Candidates must submit one composition based on a set brief (supplied by Edexcel) and one free composition (chosen by the candidate). Again, this section is worth 30% of the total GCSE. A range of computer software can help students create fantastic pieces, whether by audio recording like Garageband or Sibelius. Section 3: Appraising (written examination) Candidates will study 8 set works ranging over 4 Areas of Study, including music by J S Bach, Beethoven, Purcell, Queen and John Williams. This section is worth 40% of the overall examination.
Enrichment In the past, pupils have had webinars and concert visits, plus local visiting artists to help mould Music into a wider experience. We hope to schedule as much as we can within regulations. Musicians have access to their own areas with priority over practice rooms and computers in MUTEC.
Future Pathways
The full A Level Music is recognised as a valid university entrance subject and is valued for its emphasis on wider appraising of a wide range of set works and analytical thinking.
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