Aims of the Course
- The Advanced Higher Music Course is designed to help learners develop their knowledge of music concepts and music literacy and to integrate and apply this understanding in practical learning activities.
- Develop performing skills in solo and/or group settings on their selected instruments or on one instrument and voice.
- Perform challenging music with sufficient accuracy while maintaining the musical flow.
- Create original music using compositional methods and music concepts creatively when composing, arranging or improvising.
- Broaden their knowledge and understanding of music and musical literacy and identifying a range of music signs, symbols and music concepts.
- Critically reflect on and evaluate their own work and that of others.
Description of the Course
The course has 3 elements:
- Performance – You will learn and perform music in a variety of styles and genres and developing skills on the 2 chosen instruments or focus on a programme of performance on one instrument as well as producing a composition folio (over and above the composing assignment). By the end of the course you must reach Grade 5 standard or above.
- Composition – You will study composer’s work and learn how to use compositional techniques to compose an original piece of music lasting 1 minutes to 4 min 30 seconds.
- Understanding Music – You will develop a knowledge and understanding of musical concepts, musical theory and a range of musical styles and periods.
How is the Course Assessed
- Question Paper (35%)
1 hour 15 minute question paper based on concepts and literacy work covered in class. - Assignment – Composition (15%)
Compose 1 piece of original music lasting min. of 1 minute and max. of 4 min 30 secs.
Select a piece of music by a different composer and analyse the compositional methods and music concepts that have been used. - Performance – Instrument 1 (25%)
Perform a minimum of two pieces on their chosen instrument or voice for a minimum duration of 6 minutes (must be grade 5 standard or above) - Choice of: (25%)
Performance – Instrument 2
Both instruments should be total minimum time of 18 minutes, maximum time of 20 minutes, and must be grade 5 standard or above.
OR
Portfolio
Candidates compose a minimum of 2 pieces of music with a minimum duration of 6 minutes
