Senior Phase Music Course Outlines
Subject Overview:
Courses: Music (Higher & Advanced Higher)
The courses are designed to build on the knowledge, understanding and technical skills developed at National 5 level. Students will create another personalised performance programme across their two chosen instruments or one instrument and voice. They will learn about level-specific concepts through a mix of listening, composition and analysis activities, exploring a wide variety of genres through increasingly sophisticated musical contexts. Details of course assessments for each level are outlined below:
Webster’s High School Music Course Higher & Advanced Higher
Higher
|
Component |
Assessment |
Assessment Date |
Worth |
|
Performance Instrument 1* |
At least two pieces on each instrument, with a total time of 12 minutes and a minimum of 4 minutes on each instrument. Grade 4 ABRSM or equivalent. |
Practical exam diet: QS assessor visit (February/March)
|
25% |
|
Performance Instrument 2* |
25% |
||
|
Understanding Music |
Understanding Music Exam (supported by unit tests throughout course) |
Main exam diet (April/May) |
35% |
|
Composition |
Coursework: 1 original piece of music supported with a score/performance plan, audio recording and evaluation. |
By Easter holiday (submitted to QS for marking) |
15% |
Advanced Higher
|
Component |
Assessment |
Assessment Date |
Worth |
|
Performance Instrument 1* |
At least two pieces on each instrument, with a total time of 18 minutes and a minimum of 6 minutes on each instrument. Grade 5 ABRSM or equivalent. |
Main exam diet: QS assessor (May)
|
25% |
|
Performance Instrument 2* |
25% |
||
|
Understanding Music |
Understanding Music Exam (supported by unit tests throughout course) |
Main exam diet (April/May) |
35% |
|
Composition |
Coursework: 1 original piece of music supported with a score/performance plan, audio recording and evaluation. In addition, students must complete an analysis of a piece of music of their choice, highlighting the key concepts featured. |
By Easter holiday (submitted to QS for marking) |
15% |
*Practical prelims take place in early December. Students are expected to play 4 complete pieces.