Music
WJEC GSCE
Why Study Music?
The Music GCSE course provides you with skills that are necessary for several careers. You will have plenty of opportunities to work as a member of a team as well as developing your ability to grow as an independent learner. You will develop creative skills that will teach you how to express yourself through performance and/or compositions. The qualification can also lead to several careers in the music industry varying from performing to producing. It can also open doors to a future in the creative or expressive arts. Over the course you will develop your performing, composing and appraising skills in the context of 4 Areas of Study:
- Musical Forms and Devices: One set work- Peer Gynt: Anitra's Dance: Grieg (1875)
- Music for Ensemble
- Film Music
- Popular Music: One set work- Everything Must Go Manic Street Preachers (1996)
You will develop the necessary skills for the three assessments in a mostly practical course. This will include several opportunities to perform and compose within the classroom. Even so it will be expected of you to practice your instrument/voice as an independent learner, so that you can prepare for the performance exam as well as develop your general musicianship.
Assessment
Performing - 35% of the qualification
A performance between 4-6 minutes in length. At least 2 pieces, one as a member of an ensemble. (30%)
Programme Notes (5%)
Whilst developing your performing skills during the course you will be expected to prepare a programme 4-6 minutes in length. This can be done in cooperation with your instrument/vocal teacher or in conjunction with the Head of Music. You will develop your ensemble skills during the course. You will need to create programme notes for one of the pieces chosen for performance which is connected with an Area of Study.
Composition: 35% of the qualification
Two contrasting compositions lasting between 3-6 minutes (30%)
Composition Log and Appraisal (5%)
Learners will be expected to complete a portfolio including: Two compositions, one of which must be in response to a brief set by WJEC. Learners will choose one brief from a choice of four, each one linked to a different area of study. The briefs will be released during the first week of September in the academic year in which the assessment is to be taken. The second composition is a free composition for which learners set their own brief.
Appraising: 30% of the qualification
Written examination 1 hour in length: Eight questions in total, two on each of the four areas of study. Two of the eight questions are based on prepared extracts set by WJEC.