| There are three areas of study in the GCSE Music syllabus and these are detailed below, together with an indication of assessment methods. It must be emphasised that this examination course is not solely aimed at specialists (i.e. those boys who regard themselves as ‘musicians’ and who might be having instrumental lessons). The highest possible marks can be obtained purely as a result of work done in the classroom. In short, it is a broadly based course, available and accessible to all boys.
The Course
- Listening [40%]: A wide range of music, including Classical, Popular and World Music is used to develop an informed and discriminating ear. The final assessment is by means of a written examination based on recorded extracts.
- Performing [30%]: Boys prepare and record at least three performances (one solo, one in an ensemble; and a performance of one of their own compositions).
- Composing [30%]: From listening to and performing other people’s music we come to compose, arrange and record our own. A small portfolio of such work will develop during the course. Throughout boys have the opportunity to compose for Radley’s musicians in residence.
Performing and Composing are assessed by a boy’s teacher and moderated by the examination board.
|
|
