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Music

Year 9 (Block 3)

Members of Block 3 who are keen to develop their knowledge of music may opt to attend a weekly music class throughout their first year at Bedales. Having, initially, secured an understanding of the rudiments of music, students will be taken to more advanced levels of theoretical knowledge. They will also study the development of western notation, tuning systems and score textures. An appreciation of musical forms and historical styles will be encouraged through the analysis of scores and, albeit at an elementary level, the working of technical exercises in harmony and counterpoint. Case-studies will be made of various important composers though the use of both audio and visual media. The course is focused on western classical traditions, but popular music as well as non-western music and experimental music will also be included.

Years 10 & 11 (Blocks 4 & 5)

Classical Music

The Bedales Assessed Course in Classical Music is designed for the musician who is academically ambitious. Placing greater emphasis on theory and history than GCSE, it is equally suitable for students considering Music A level and for those who seek a more informed enjoyment of their practical music-making. There are parallel and related topics in Analysis and History, Compositional Techniques and Free Composition. The detailed study of increasingly substantial works will form a major element in the course.

Music GCSE

GCSE Music approaches the subject in a broad and stimulating way, along the three linked paths of listening, performance and composition. Work is based around four major areas of study – Western Classical Music, Music in the 20th Century, Popular Music in Context and World Music.

Examining Board: Edexcel 1426

Sixth Form

In order to challenge and satisfy the ambitions of those students who have already achieved a very high level of academic understanding and practical ability, we have decided to offer Cambridge Pre-U as an alternative to the Edexcel A Level. It is a six term course, with no halfway exams at the end of 6i. The increased level of difficulty with Pre-U has been recognised by UCAS and a higher tariff allocated.
There are four areas of assessment:

• Listening, Analysis and Historical Study (30%)
• Performing (22.5%
• Solo, ensemble and improvisation
• Composing (22.5%)
• Dissertation or Advanced Recital or Free Composition (25%)

Examining Board: CIE

Head of Department: Nicholas Gleed

Download a guide to the Sixth Form Curriculum.

View examination requirements for Cambridge Pre-U (practical)

Itinerary for School Music Tour of Italy

Watch students Serena and Olivia Brett perform Cosi Fan Tutte at a Bedales concert, St Luke's Church, Chelsea.

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