Higher Music

While entry is at the discretion of the centre, pupils would normally be expected to have attained an N5 award.

Music with Performing

Course Outline

Pupils are required to perform on 2 instruments, compose and understand musical concepts and literacy.

Performing

Each instrument is worth 25% of the marks

Instruments should be chosen from the following categories

Bagpipes
Guitar/Bass Guitar
Tuned Percussion
Brass
Keyboard/ Piano
Voice
Drumkit
Woodwind

Composing

Pupils are required to produce an original piece of music at least one and a half minutes in length. Pupils are encouraged to develop their technology skills by using the computer and Sibelius program to help with composition. Pupils must also write a 200-300 word review of their composing process, including decisions, development and self-reflection. This will be sent to the SQA to be externally marked.

Understanding Music

This element is worth 35% of the marks

Pupils will study different styles of music and develop aural recognition of musical concepts, ensembles etc as well as develop an in-depth knowledge of musical literacy.

Assessment

A Visiting Examiner will assess performance, on both instruments, in March of S5.
Composing will be sent to the SQA in April to be externally marked.
Understanding Music will be assessed by a written paper taken during the main diet of examinations in May/June.

Advanced Higher

While entry is at the discretion of the centre, pupils would normally be expected to have attained a Higher award.

Music with Performing

Course Outline

Pupils are required to perform on 2 instruments, compose and understand musical concepts and literacy.

Performing

Each instrument is worth 30% of the marks

Instruments should be chosen from the following categories

Bagpipes Guitar/Bass Guitar Tuned Percussion

Brass Keyboard/ Piano Voice

Drumkit Woodwind

Composing

Pupils are required to compose one piece of original music. Pupils are encouraged to develop their technology skills by using the computer and Sibelius program to help with composition. This unit is marked Pass/Fail. However, pupils need to pass this in order to achieve the full course award.

The Advanced Higher composition should last at least two minutes and contain 18 level appropriate concepts.

Understanding Music

This element is worth 40% of the marks

Pupils will study different styles of music and develop aural recognition of musical concepts, ensembles etc as well as develop an extensive knowledge of musical literacy.

Pupils have to produce an analytical commentary of 1500 words based on two pieces of music chosen and analysed by the candidate. This should demonstrate a sound knowledge of musical concepts and literacy as well as personal reflection of the pieces chosen to study. This can be in a number of formats including an essay, power point, radio broadcast etc. The commentary is marked Pass/ Fail. However pupils need to pass this in order to achieve the full course award.

Assessment

A Visiting Examiner will assess performance, on both instruments, in May of S6.
Composing will be internally assessed and externally moderated.
The Analytical commentary will be internally assessed and externally moderated.
Understanding Music will be assessed by a written paper taken during the main diet of examinations in May/June.

S3 – S6

Daily practice is essential. Those who do not have access to an instrument at home are expected to practice in the Music department at interval/lunchtime or during supported study. Practical work is monitored regularly by teachers to ensure that progress is being made. Written homework is marked by the teacher.

Worksheets, musical dictionary and revision materials are issued to reinforce listening concepts taught in class. Homework tasks are issued on a weekly basis. As 60% of the certificate Music course is practical based, pupils are strongly encouraged to attend supported study classes to further their practical skills. The department issues pupils with a list of reputable websites which pupils can access to enhance listening skills and practise exam type questions.

S3 – S6