Students will follow the EDEXCEL specification. The three areas which are assessed are:-

 Performance paper - 30%
Students are required to perform two different pieces on their chosen instrument, one of which must be part of an ensemble. These two pieces are then assessed. However, students must, as part of the course, perform regularly to an audience.

 Composition paper - 30%
Students are assessed on two pieces from their composition folio. These two compositions must be written to a brief and be from different areas of study. One of the compositions must be played by the student themselves

  Listening paper - 40%
A written exam lasting 1hour 30 minutes, where students will answer questions on the four areas of study, after hearing pieces from a CD.

The areas of study (which are subject to change):-

1. Repetition and contrast in western classical music 1600-1899
2. New directions in western classical music 1900 to the present day
3. Popular song in context
4. Rhythms, scales and modes in music from around the world

Back to Departments

The Music GCSE is a challenging course. To get the most from it, students must be confident on their chosen instrument or voice; possess the ability to work independently and with others, and have a willingness to listen to and experience new music.