Examination Board EDUQAS
Qualification level GCSE
Specification code 601/8131/X
Overview There are many reasons why you may wish to study Music at GCSE: it will broaden your horizons; it has links to real life; it is academically rigorous; it is well respected by top universities; it is fulfilling and challenging; it enables creative learning; it enables you to express yourself, and; it allows you to show your analytical skills.
Curriculum There are four areas of study, all of which are assessed through a written listening examination:
• Area of study 1: Musical Forms and Devices • Area of study 2: Music for Ensemble • Area of study 3: Film Music • Area of study 4: Popular Music
Assessment There are three components to GCSE Music; Performing, Composing and Appraising.
1. Performing - You will perform a minimum of two pieces, one of which must be an ensemble performance of at least one minute’s duration. The other piece(s) may be either solo and/or ensemble. The total duration of the performances must be between 4-6 minutes. They can be presented on any instrument or voice and in order to achieve the highest marks you will need to be of at least Grade 3 standard. 2. Composing - You will compose two pieces, one of which will be in response to a chosen brief set by the exam board. The second composition will be a free composition for which you will set your own brief. 3. Listening and appraising - After studying a wide range of different musical genres and periods from the four Areas of Study, you will sit a listening examination asking you to identify musical features from a variety of extracts of music.
Assessment
Unit % of final assessment Type of assessment
1 30% Performing (internally examined, externally moderated) 2 30% Composing (internally examined, externally moderated) 3 40% Listening and appraising examination
Timing of assessment
Can only be recorded in Year 11 Easter Year 11
Summer Year 11
Do pupils need to study at GCSE for Sixth Form Level? No, pupils can study A Level music without GSCE Music if they have Grade 5 Music Theory and practical certificates.
Pupil View ‘There’s such a wide range of styles –I thought it would be all classical music but there’s film and TV music, and Pop. Composing at this level was a new challenge and I’m really proud of my final compositions.’
