Music (GCSE WJEC/EDUQAS C660QS)
Music GCSE at King’s Academy Ringmer offers a comprehensive and immersive study of music, designed to develop students’ skills in performing, composing, and appraising a wide range of musical styles. The course is divided into three main components: performance (30%), composition (30%), and a written listening exam (40%). Students have the opportunity to perform both as soloists and as part of ensembles, building technical proficiency, expressive skills, and confidence in live and recorded settings.
Composition tasks encourage creativity and innovation, allowing students to explore different musical genres, structures, and techniques. They learn to create original pieces that demonstrate an understanding of musical elements such as melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, and dynamics.
The written listening exam assesses students’ ability to analyse and evaluate music from four key areas of study: musical forms and devices, music for ensemble, film music, and popular music. Students develop critical listening skills, learning to identify musical features, interpret scores, and understand the historical and cultural context of the pieces studied.
Throughout the course, students engage in both practical and theoretical learning, enhancing their musicianship and broadening their appreciation of diverse musical traditions. The course fosters discipline, teamwork, and analytical thinking, preparing students for further study at A Level or careers in music performance, composition, music technology, and related fields.
Music GCSE is graded 9–1, with assessment designed to measure students’ technical skills, creativity, and understanding of musical concepts. It is an excellent choice for students passionate about music and eager to develop their talents in a supportive and challenging environment.