GCSE Music There are three elements to the course: 1.Composition 2.Listening 3.Performing The following slides will give you some tips on how to help your son or daughter progress in each area:

COMPOSITION/ CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT Course Requirement – ‘Students will create two contrasting compositions and keep a composition log for each’ The composition portfolio (both pieces) should last between 3-6 minutes One of the compositions must be related to one the areas of study; - Musical Traditions in Ireland - Incidental Music - Repeated Patterns in Music - Vocal Music Before submission in December of form five, students must consult the composition checklist to ensure all details are included in their portfolio. The teacher will mark the work and CCEA will moderate Home Preparation for Medium Controlled Assessment minutes per evening, four times a week Constant update of electronic scores in Sibelius, GarageBand, GuitarPro is essential.

PERFORMANCE/CONTROLLED ASSESSMENT Course Requirement – ‘Students will present one solo performance and one ensemble performance, each lasting five minutes. One of the performances must be related to one the areas of study; - Musical Traditions in Ireland - Incidental Music - Repeated Patterns in Music - Vocal Music -The student will also discuss their performances which is worth 5% of the total marks. The performance will be assessed by a CCEA visiting examiner Home Preparation for Performance 30 minutes practice per evening It is essential that students are involved in the extra-curricular activities as this develops their musicianship skills

LISTENING Course Requirement – ‘Students will complete one exam which is divided into two parts. Part one is based on the core area of study (Repeated Patterns) and lasts 45 minutes. Part two is based on the optional areas of study (Incidental & Vocal) which lasts 45 minutes’. Both parts of the exam will contain questions on familiar and unfamiliar music. It is essential that students are involved in the extra-curricular activities as this develops their musicianship skills CCEA sets and marks the exam papers. Home Preparation for Listening Students must listen to the recordings of the set works on a regular basis All musical scores given in class must be fully annotated Revision sheets for each set work must be completed before Easter of 5 th year