Music Course Details:

GCSE:

GCSE Music is about making and listening to music. It covers performing, composing and listening in a wide variety of musical styles – popular music, world music, and classical music. There are opportunities to use music technology for composing and recording.

Will I enjoy this course?

You will enjoy this course if you want to study a subject that:

• Involves performing.
• Involves listening to all kinds of music Involves composing or arranging music
• Gives you the opportunity to play music with others in e.g., rock groups, bands, orchestras or choirs.
• Gives you the opportunity to learn more about and use music technology

How does it follow on from what I have learnt before?

You will improve your skills in performing and composing different types of music. You will listen to a wide variety of music and learn more about how and why it was written and/or performed.

What about exams?

There is one exam in the summer. You will listen to a CD and answer questions on the prescribed set works, which cover popular music, classical music and music from around the world.

BTEC:

The BTEC Level 2 Extended Certificate Music offers an engaging programme for those who have an interest in Performing Arts, specifically Music. If you like and enjoy practical Music-making, you will enjoy this challenging and rewarding subject.

• All units are internally assessed (no exam).

The course is broadly equivalent to two GCSEs:

• Pass = equivalent to 2 C grades at GCSE level.
• Merit = equivalent to 2 B grades at GCSE level.
• Distinction = equivalent to 2 A grades at GCSE level.
• Distinction* = equivalent to 2 A* grades at GCSE level

The units focus on: Educating and training those who may be interested in working as part of the Performing Arts Industry Providing opportunities for learners to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attributes.

A Level:

You will enjoy A Level Music if:

• You enjoy performing music in any style of your choice - solo or ensemble.
• You enjoy composing (with more freedom than at GCSE).
• You are willing to listen to and analyse music from a range of styles and contexts you enjoy working independently.

Useful skills to have:

• Confident performing skills - the ability to perform on your main instrument/voice at grade 4 or above.
• Some basic keyboard skills.
• Grade C or above in GCSE Music.
• Motivation to work with others and on your own.
• Broad interest in a range of musical styles.