Music

Head of Department: Mr K Harrison, kharrison@abbotshill.herts.sch.uk

Subject Title Examination Board Qualification Subject Code Assessment Music Edexcel GCSE 1MU0 The GCSE music examination consists of three separate components: performance, composition and listening. Performance - 30% One solo piece (15%) and one ensemble piece (15%). Composition - 30% Two pieces are composed; one from a choice of four set briefs linked to one of the areas of study and one free composition. Listening and Appraising - 40% Written paper: 1 hour 45 minutes

Subject Overview

We encourage pupils to listen to a wide range of different styles of music to help with their listening skills. They are given the opportunity to reflect on, analyse and evaluate music in aural and/or written form. Pupils will have much opportunity to develop their creativity through composition; they will be encouraged to explore a range of compositional starting points and investigate elements, techniques and resources for developing and manipulating ideas – turning them into completed pieces of music.

In the area of performance pupils will be given the opportunity to rehearse and refine performances on their chosen instrument or voice, developing technical control, expression and interpretative skills.

Course Content

Throughout the two-year Edexcel course students will study varied areas of music: • Instrumental Music 1700 – 1820 • Vocal Music • Music for Stage and Screen • Fusions • Composition • Performance