Music

Assessment

Unit 1 Performing 30% A public performance of one or more pieces, performed as a recital. Performance can be playing or singing solo, in an ensemble, improvising, or realising music using music technology. The total performance time across all pieces must be a minimum of 8 minutes. Performances must be recorded after 1 March in the year of certification and all materials for assessment submitted to arrive by 15 May in the year of certification. Unit 2 Composing 30% Total of two compositions, one to a brief set by Pearson and one either free composition or also to a brief. One composition must be from either a list of briefs related to the areas of study, or a free composition, carrying 40 marks for this component. This composition must be at least 4 minutes in duration. One composition must be from a list of briefs assessing compositional technique, carrying 20 marks for this component. This composition must be at least 1 minute in duration, unless the brief specifies a longer minimum duration. Total time across both submissions must be a minimum of 6 minutes. Unit 3 Appraising 40% Knowledge and understanding of musical elements, contexts and language. Application of knowledge through the context of six areas of study, each with three set works. Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusions, New Directions. Application of knowledge to unfamiliar works. The areas of study are: Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusions, New Directions. One written paper of 2 hours, with a total of 100 marks. One audio CD with the extracts to accompany questions on the paper will be provided per student. This paper comprises two sections: A and B. Section A: Areas of study and dictation (50 marks). Three questions related to the set works (audio and skeleton score provided). One short melody/rhythm completion exercise. Section B: Extended response. Two essay questions - essay one (20 marks) and essay two (30 marks). Essay one asks students to draw links from their study of the set works to the music heard as an unfamiliar extract. Essay two gives a choice of three questions that ask students to evaluate the musical elements, context and language of one set work. Each option will be from a different area of study.