Years 7-9
This exciting and interesting subject aims to develop your interest and passion for music both as performers and as audience members giving you an enthusiasm for the subject. You will experience a wide range of music genres. Lessons will be highly practical and there will be a range of group and individual work to allow you to develop the skills and fulfil your potential within the subject. A challenging, creative and enjoyable course.
Assessment
Students will be assessed at the end of each scheme of work by your teachers, this will involve a practical performance. Throughout the term you will be given feedback in a variety of forms including; written, verbal, peer and self-assessment. This feedback will help you make improvements to your practical performance work throughout the course.
Years 10 and 11
Awarding body
AQA
Course overview
Music is a practical and creative subject that develops performance, composition, and listening
skills, helping students build a personal and meaningful relationship with music. Throughout the
course, students engage critically and creatively with a wide range of music and musical contexts, exploring how music expresses personal and collective identities.
What will students study?
- Component 1: Understanding music. Students develop knowledge of musical styles, genres and contexts, learning to listen critically through set pieces, musical elements, and written tasks.
- Component 2: Performing music. Students develop practical skills as an instrumentalist, vocalist, or using technology. They prepare a solo and an ensemble performance (minimum four minutes), supported by rehearsal planning and reflection.
- Component 3: Composing music. Students create original compositions, including one to a
brief and one free composition (minimum three minutes). They use notation or technology to
present their work, developing creativity and their own musical voice.
Assessment
At the end of the course, students are assessed through a combination of written examinations and practical work:
- Understanding music: 1 hour 30 minutes written exam (40% of GCSE)
- Performing music: Solo and ensemble performance (minimum 4 minutes total; 30% of GCSE)
- Composing music: Two compositions (minimum 3 minutes total; 30% of GCSE)
Performances and compositions are internally marked by teachers and externally moderated by AQA.
Recommended revision guides / course resources
