Overview
At Key Stage 3, pupils are introduced to a broad and engaging music curriculum that develops a strong foundation in both practical and theoretical understanding. Key areas of music are explored, including musical history, styles from different periods, and music from a wide range of cultures. Pupils build essential skills in reading and understanding musical notation, while regularly engaging in performing and composing in a variety of styles and on a range of instruments.
At Key Stage 4 pupils follow the Edexcel music syllabus, allowing them to develop their musical skills and knowledge in greater depth and with increasing independence.
The curriculum across all key stages is structured around three core musical disciplines: Performance, composition, and listening/appraisal.
Throughout every lesson, pupils use and apply musical language and terminology accurately, supporting clear discussion, critical listening, and reflective evaluation of music. This consistent emphasis helps students to deepen their understanding of how music works and to communicate their ideas effectively, both practically and academically.
Year 7
- Musical elements
- Notation
- Instruments of the orchestra and fanfares
- Music and mood
- Programme music
Year 8
- Celtic music
- Music of Asia
- Blues music
- Latin American music
- African drumming
Year 9
- Minimalism
- Jazz music
- Film music
- Popular music
- EDM
Year 10 and 11
GCSE Music is divided into three sections: appraisal, composition, and performance.
Appraisal is worth 40% of the final grade and is assessed through a written listening exam.
Composition is worth 30%, and performance is also worth 30%.
Both composition and performance are assessed through coursework, which is completed and submitted before the final exam.
Appraisal
The appraisal component tests pupils’ ability to listen to, analyse, and evaluate music from a range of styles and traditions. It develops understanding of musical elements (such as melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, structure, and timbre) and how these are used in different contexts.
Assessment is through a listening exam where pupils answer questions on:
- The set works
- Unfamiliar pieces related to the areas of study
- Musical features, terminology, and context
The appraisal section encourages critical listening skills and a broad understanding of music from different periods, cultures, and genres.
Composition
The composition component assesses students’ ability to create and develop original music. Students submit two compositions with a combined duration of at least 3 minutes.
- One composition must be written to a set brief released by Edexcel.
- One composition is a free composition, in any style or genre.
Performance
The performance component assesses students’ ability to perform music confidently and accurately. Students submit two performances with a combined duration of at least 4 minutes.
- One solo performance
- One ensemble performance
Performances can be on any instrument or voice, in any style or genre. Students are assessed on technical control, accuracy, expression, and interpretation, appropriate to the difficulty of the music.
Exam board
Edexcel