Music
Head of Department: Miss F Squire - f.squire.scs@osborne.coop
Music has a power of forming the character and should therefore be introduced into the education of the young. (Aristotle)
The Department for Education describes Music as:
"…an enriching and valuable academic subject with important areas of knowledge that need be learnt, including how to play an instrument and sing.
Secondary benefits of music education are those of increased self-esteem and aspirations; improved behaviour and social skills; and improved academic attainment in areas such as numeracy, literacy and language…"
The NCFE qualification is aimed at students with an interest in music production and recording. It is a vocational qualification equivalent to GCSE at grades A*-C.
Examination Breakdown
All components cover the four units of the course:
Unit 1: Using a digital audio workstation (DAW)
Unit 2: Creating music
Unit 3: Studio recording
Unit 4: Sound creation
Component 1: Written Test
Comprising short-answer questions and listening questions.
Component 2: Practical Assessment
Creative and technical manipulation of musical material to a given brief.
Component 3: Coursework
A portfolio demonstrating all learning outcomes for all four units.
Exam Course Study Breakdown (Key Stage 4)
EXAM COURSE:
NCFE Level 2 Technical Awards in Music Technology Full Exam Specification (PDF)
Exam board and Code: NCFE 601/6774/9
Assessment:
Component 1: Written exam - 15% (2 hours)
Component 2: Practical exam - 35% (2 hours)
Component 3: Coursework - 50%
Students will work through the following four units, compiling a portfolio of work during years 9, 10 and 11.
Unit 1: Using a Digital Audio Workstation
This unit will allow learners to develop skills in operating a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) creatively using audio, MIDI, hardware and editing tools. Learners will create a musical project in response to a brief, reflecting industry skills.
Unit 2: Creating Music
Learners will develop skills to analyse stylistic elements of music and develop a piece of music based on a specific style. Learners will engage in a review of technical and creative processes.
Unit 3: Recording Studio
Learners will plan and undertake a recording session for a given scenario. Learners will create a mixdown of their recording and review the final product.
Unit 4: Sound Creation
Learners will explore sound creation and apply their knowledge to a given brief. They will create and review their own original sound creation project.
