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Music At Meden...

The Meden School’s Music department provides students with the opportunity to study music from key stage 3 to A level standard. As well as providing a comprehensive musical education at all levels there is the chance for pupils to study with one of our many private instrumental teachers, who provide one to one tuition at subsidised rates.

Key stage 3

It is a requirement that pupils take part in music lessons from year 7 through to year 9. Each of these years is split into 6 modules which encompass a wide range of topics, including, the elements of music, basic keyboard skills, song writing, Indian music, experimental music, blues and reggae. Each of these modules is assessed on pupils performing, composing and listening abilities. In addition, the course provides a solid musical grounding for students wishing to continue their studies into years 10 and 11 and also allow less able students to gain valuable musical experience.

Key stage 4

Pupils study the Edexcel GCSE syllabus. This is split into four areas of study: Structure in Western Classical Music 1600-1899; Changing Directions in Western Classical Music from 1900; Popular Music in Context; and Indian Raga, African Music and Fusions. The course is taught over two years and is assessed on pupils performing, composing and appraising skills. Pupils are expected to play an instrument and will perform several times during the course, including a final solo recital. As part of the course students must submit two compositions based on different areas of study. There is a final timed examination which tests pupils abilities to listen to and appraise unfamiliar music. While there is no requirement for previous musical experience, pupils may find it beneficial to begin lessons on their chosen instrument before the start of year 10.

Key Stage 5

Pupils study the Edexcel AS/A2 syllabus. In year 12 students study two topics from the Anthology of Music. Each topic is much more detailed in scope than in previous years and is assessed during a final timed exam. Students are expected to be able to perform on their chosen instrument to at least grade 5 standard and must complete a log of four performances during the course as well as a final recital. In addition one composition must be completed during the course and there is a second timed examination which tests students aural skills. There is also a set of compositional techniques exercises which must be completed during the Spring term.

In year 13 students extend their study of one of the Anthology topics from year 12, as well as studying a new area. At this point students can decide to specialise in either performance or composition. Performance candidates must prepare a 20 minute recital on a topic of their choosing and are expected to research the area and produce a written programme to accompany the performance. Composition candidates must produce two compositions based on different areas of study. There are three timed examinations, one each for aural skills, Anthology topics and compositional techniques.