Course Description

The S4 course provides a pathway to the Higher and Advanced Higher courses and offers all students the opportunity to perform, listen to and compose music in a number of individual and group situations. Practical skills are taught in class and a number of students also benefit from instrumental instruction. There are three main areas.

1. Performing -1 st and 2nd instruments All students play two different instruments e.g. drum-kit and keyboard, clarinet and bass guitar. Students can, with advice from their teacher, choose their instruments from a range of classroom, band and orchestral instruments as well as voice. Students are encouraged and supported to take part in a variety of performances in class, in school and at outside concerts. Live performance is an important part of the course.

2. Understanding Music Students, through listening, will develop knowledge and understanding of music, a range of music concepts and basic music literacy. Learners will explore music across a range of styles and genres and consider the social and cultural influences on music.

3. Composing Assignment This part of the pathway enables students to develop skills in inventing before going on to create their own original music. Students use the latest technology including Ableton, Noteflight and various apps and also explore the techniques used by other composers and musicians.

Possible Careers

• Performer

• Composer

• DJ

• Music Therapist

• Sound engineer

• Broadcasting/film/video

• Radio producer

• Event manager

• Arts administrator

• Community arts worker

• Music retailer/publisher

• Primary/secondary teacher or visiting specialist