311 Practical Harmony Application (Chords and Progressions)
Pupils will compose four chord progressions across a range of tonalities: major, harmonic minor, a mode of the major scale and a mode of the harmonic minor scale, building understanding of triads, sevenths, and extensions among others e.g. 6th, sus, dim, aug and add chords, as well as chord functions, harmonic rhythm and Roman numerals. Pupils must submit an essay and four audio files of compositions. All unit submissions count towards pupils’ final grades. Pupils receive two opportunities to submit work to be marked; the first can be used as a formative opportunity to improve and the second is summative. This unit is marked internally.
322 Music Instrument Development
Pupils will develop critical thinking and analysis, promoting understanding of the historical, sociological and technological development of musical instruments, including their use in popular music and the players involved. By exploring, analysing and dissecting the use and development of instruments – both historical and current – pupils will be able to use instrumental timbres to full effect and further develop their personal playing techniques. Pupils must submit an essay and videoed presentation. All unit submissions count towards pupils’ final grades. Pupils receive two opportunities to submit work to be marked; the first can be used as a formative opportunity to improve and the second is summative. This unit is marked internally.
363 Session Musician
This unit aims to develop the learner’s ability to operate effectively as an instrumentalist/vocalist in a range of musical styles and environments (both live and in the studio), whilst developing strategies to broaden musical horizons, increase flexibility and promote versatility. Pupils must submit an essay and videoed performance. All unit submissions count towards pupils’ final grades. Pupils receive two opportunities to submit work to be marked; the first can be used as a formative opportunity to improve and the second is summative. This unit is marked internally.
365 Auditioning for Music
For a musician, possessing the skills to audition effectively and successfully is vital. This unit aims to develop the musical, performance and soft skills to participate effectively in the audition process — pupils will develop the techniques, forms and accepted procedures of auditioning, together with the development of analytical and strategic thinking skills. Pupils must submit an essay and videoed audition. All unit submissions count towards pupils’ final grades. Pupils receive two opportunities to submit work to be marked; the first can be used as a formative opportunity to improve and the second is summative. This unit is marked internally.