Introduction to GCSE

Music deals with the communication of ideas and feelings through sound.  It develops the creative, aesthetic, intellectual and social awareness of each pupil.

 

Content

This syllabus includes the three main activities of Listening, Performing and Composing, which are integrated during the course.  It provides a worthwhile course of study in its own right and will also create a suitable foundation for continued study of music at a more advanced level.

 

Scheme of Assessment

 

Composing and Appraising (Coursework) 30%

Performing and Appraising (As a soloist and as part of an ensemble) 35%

Listening and Appraising (Written Paper) 35%

 

Career Awareness

Useful for:

  • Music Teaching

  • Primary Teacher Training

  • Music Therapy

  • Performance Dance

  • P.E Teaching

  • Recording Industry

  • Broadcasting

  • Arts Management

  • Music Technology

  • Retailing and Marketing

 

Essential for:

All degree courses in Music, Music Therapy and Music Technology.

 

Pupils should have:

  • A satisfactory level of keyboard competence.

  • A high level of competence of a performance instrument of their choice.

  • A commitment to all musical activities related to school life.

Introduction to A Level

This course builds upon the knowledge, skills and understanding promoted by the programmes of study for Music at Key Stages 1 to 3 and that required by GCSE Music. It provides a suitable foundation for the study of Music and related courses in further and higher education.

A’LEVEL SUBJECT CONTENT

AS

AS 1 (AS 64%/ AL 32%)

Students must choose one of the following options:

Option A: Core solo or ensemble performance + composition task

Option B: Core solo or ensemble performance + multi tracking task

Option C: Core solo or ensemble performance + sequenced arrangement task

Option D: Core composition task + solo or ensemble performance

 

A2

A2 1: 30%

Students must choose one of the following options:

Option A: Core solo or ensemble performance + composition task

Option B: Core solo or ensemble performance + multi tracking task

Option C: Core solo or ensemble performance + sequenced arrangement task

Option D: Core composition task + solo or ensemble performance

METHOD OF ASSESSMENT

 

AS 2: (AS 36% / AL 18%)

Test of aural perception lasting 1 hour.  Written examination lasting 75 minutes

A2 2: 20%

Test of aural perception lasting 1 hour.  Written examination lasting 90 minutes

 

RECOMMENDED SUBJECT/S AND GRADES AT GCSE

  • Grade B or higher in GCSE Music

  • Piano/Keyboard Skills

 

CAREER POSSIBILITIES

In the area of Music there is a wide and diverse range of Career opportunities requiring a wide range of specialised training. Some of the possible Career Options are:

  • Teaching

  • Performance                         

  • Music Therapy

  • Composing

  • Music Technology/Recording

  • Music/Arts administration

  • Journalism

  • Librarian

  • Broadcast Industry

  • Retail Industry

  •  

OTHER INFORMATION

 

Music A Level provides students with a variety of musical activities and experiences which develop creativity, improve communication skills, build confidence and encourage independent thinking.  A  Level students are encouraged to become members of instrumental and/or vocal groups and have an active interest in the musical life of the school and of their local community.

MUSIC DEPARTMENT

 

Mount Lourdes Music Department provides many in-school and extra-curricular activities which enhance student life for all pupils.There are at present several Choirs -Senior and Junior, both of which rehearse on Tuesdays after school, and a Senior Chamber Choir.We have numerous instrumental ensembles including a String Orchestra, Wind Band, Brass Band, Ceili Band and several Grupa Ceoils.These groups perform regularly throughout the school year both internally and at public functions. A musical is staged every few years combining skills in both music and drama.All students are encouraged to sign up for participation in these Music-making activities.