Page 18 - Kingham Hill School GCSE prospectus

Course Catalogue A - Z

Music

(Edexcel GCSE Music 9-1)

Music’s value as a subject lies in its breadth, and universities and employers recognise the unique
benefits it offers. It encourages academic rigour through analysis of socio-historical issues relating
to music’s place in history and right up to the present day. In addition, it recognises creative talent
and personal organisation and discipline in its composition and performance modules, requiring
both a musically satisfying final outcome, as well as demonstrating perseverance in private practice
in order to reach that goal.

Units of study and examination criteria:

Pupils will study three units -

Unit 1 (30%)
Comprises of a recorded performance of at least four minutes’ duration (which must include at
least one minute of ensemble playing). Recordings must be completed between 1 April and 15 May
of Year 11.

Unit 2 (30%)
This unit consists of two compositions which together must total three minutes’ duration.
Compositions must be written between 1 September and 15 May of Year 11.

Unit 3 (40%)
Assessment is via a 1 hour and 45 minute appraising exam, in which candidates must demonstrate
and apply musical knowledge relating to eight pieces they have studied during the course, as well
as using appraising skills to make evaluative and critical judgements relating to an unfamiliar piece
not previously encountered.

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