GCSE Music

 

​​​​​​​​​​​Music is a universal language that has the power to bring people together, evoke emotions, and enhance the human experience. By studying Edexcel GCSE music, you will have the opportunity to delve into this fascinating world and explore its many dimensions. From understanding the structure of music and its historical context, to creating and performing your own compositions, the Edexcel GCSE music syllabus is designed to provide a comprehensive and engaging education in music. Suited to students with existing instrumental or vocal​ skill, the course provides a fascinating insight into this creative art form.  Our GCSE curriculum is supported by the opportunity to participate in a wide range of co-curricular musical ensembles, as well as providing enrichment through regular trips and workshops. Students studying GCSE music will have access to two fully equipped music ICT suites as well as a dedicated recording studio.

Introductory video to GCSE Music

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Course Breakdown

Performing (30%)

One solo performance (1 minute minimum)

One ensemble performance (1 minute minimum)

Standard: Grade 3, less difficult; Grade 4, standard; Grade 5, more difficult (Any exam board)

Combined total of both performances must be a minimum of 4 minutes

Composing (30%)

One free composition (1 minute minimum)

One composition to a brief (1 minute minimum)

Combined total of both compositions must be a minimum of 3 minutes​

Appraising (40%)

Eight set works for GCSE music (105mins exam)

 Instrumental Music 1700 - 1820

• ​J.S.Bach - Brandenburg Concerto No.5 in D major, Movement III​
• L.V.Beethoven - Piano Sonata Op.13 No.8 in C minor 'Pathétique', Movement I

 Vocal Music

• Henry Purcell - Music for a While
• Queen - Killer Queen

 Music for Stage and Screen

• Stephen Schwartz - 'Defying Gravity' from Wicked
  
• John Williams - 'Main Title/Rebel Blockade Runner' from Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope

 Fusions

• Afro Celt Sound System - Release
• Esperanza Spalding - Samba Em Preludio​

Students will also study music from the same genres above. A section of the exam will be on unfamiliar music, and students will be expected to compare and contrast the unfamiliar music with the set works they have already studied.

Students will have the opportunity to work towards grade 5 theory throughout the course. This will support their GCSE studies as well as preparing them for musical studies beyond GCSE.

To support their GCSE work it is strongly recommended that students receive a weekly instrumental lesson on their principal study.
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