Award Received 

Higher (graded A to D).

Entry Level

What do I need to do it?

The preferred level of entry to Higher Music is an N5 pass at A or B level. Students with an N5 pass at C level may be allocated a place at the discretion of the school. Only in exceptional cases following discussion should someone consider taking Higher Music without having completed the National 5 course.

Course Content

What will I learn?

The course allows you to develop practical skills in performing and creating music, while developing your understanding of musical styles and concepts. It can meet the needs of a wide variety of learners with a range of musical interests.

Teaching Methods

What will I do?

The course provides opportunities for you to perform a variety of music using your voice and/or your selected instrument(s). Through music, you will extend your ability to express yourself and develop your personal creativity and self-confidence when performing and creating music. In the course, you will develop a breadth of knowledge and understanding of music concepts and musical literacy. You will develop your ability to recognise and distinguish level-specific music signs, symbols and music concepts as you perform, create and listen to music.

Course Assessment

Performance

The purpose of the performance is to allow you to demonstrate skills on two instruments (can include voice). The overall programme must be a minimum of 12 minutes and must not exceed 13 minutes. You should perform a minimum of two contrasting pieces of music on each instrument. These should be of an appropriate standard/level of difficulty (equivalent to grade 4 Associated Board). The performance has 60 marks (50% of the overall course award).

Composing

The purpose of the composing assignment is to explore and develop musical ideas to create music. The assignment has two parts:

· composing one piece of music

· reviewing the composing process

The composed piece may be in any style/genre and must last between a minimum of 1 minute and a maximum of 3 minutes 30 seconds. The assignment has 20 marks (15% of the overall course award).

Question Paper

The question paper gives you an opportunity to demonstrate the following skills, knowledge and understanding:

· aural perception and discrimination

· knowledge and understanding of a range of music styles, concepts and music literacy

The question paper has 40 marks (35% of the overall course award).

Homework

You will be expected to develop and extend your skills outside the classroom in all three elements of the course. This involves regular practice on your two chosen instruments as well as composing and listening. Attendance at extra-curricular music activities is strongly recommended and will greatly enhance your musical education.

Progression in the Senior Phase

Successful completion of the Higher course may lead to Advanced Higher Music.