Music

Introduction

The Music course at our school stands out for its comprehensive preparation of students for university-level studies and careers in all aspects of music and other creative industries. What sets us apart is our team of 15 visiting instrumental music teachers, each an expert in their field, who provide specialised instruction in a wide range of instruments. These teachers visit our school weekly, offering individual lessons and guidance to enhance our students’ musical skills and techniques.

Participation in the Department’s highly regarded music performance groups is not just encouraged, it’s a gateway to excellence. These groups, including the Symphony Orchestra, the Concert Band, the Big Band, Grammarphonics, Grammar Virtuosi, the Pipe Band and Wind Band, Concertante String Orchestra and Chamber Music Ensembles, perform regularly and strive for excellence. They showcase their talents in internal and external performances and competitions, providing our students with a platform to shine throughout the year.

The Music program has a rich history of nurturing outstanding musicians and scholars. Our students have not only excelled in academic music studies and performance but have also established successful careers as professional musicians, both in New Zealand and internationally. This track record of success is a testament to the quality of our program and the potential it holds for our current and future students.

Form 3 General Music

Course description/aims: Music is taught to all students in Form 3 through a teaching programme. The Form 3 course aims to develop four broad capabilities:

To develop the ability to discern detail in music.
To develop music performance skills
To develop music composition skills
To think about and understand how music works

Students will:

Learn the language of music
Develop musical ideas
Communicate and interpret meaning in music
Understand music in context

This is achieved through developing skills in Music Literacy and Aural skills—turning symbols into sound and turning sound into symbols. From this, knowledge and skills are developed in rhythm, pitch and melody, tempo, dynamics, texture, harmony, structure, and timbre.

There is a mixture of computer-based learning, specialised composition and keyboard training software, written and listening work and instrument-based, creative tasks.

Learning a musical instrument: Learning a musical instrument will never be more affordable or as easy to manage. Grammar offers a wide range of lessons on most musical instruments from some of the best instrumental teachers in New Zealand. Learning an instrument is optional but is necessary if considering Option Music in Form 4 or above. Students interested in music but not currently playing an instrument should seek further information here.

We recommend talking to a staff member in the Music Department for advice: not every instrument is available for lessons, and making a good choice is important.

Methods of assessment: Common Test in Term 1, 2 and 4 Guitar and Keyboard performances Music Composition.

Student Pathways: Students who wish to continue their studies at a higher level should seek admission to Form 4 Option Music and the Pre-Q Music course in Form 5. Music can be studied as a subject at all year levels on both the NCEA and Cambridge pathways. Studying Music contributes to University Entrance qualifications and can be continued at the tertiary level.

Form 4 Option Music

Prerequisites: This course builds on the Music principles covered in the Form 3 Music course. Students wishing to take this course should be actively engaged in learning and playing an instrument or singing. If a student does not currently play an instrument or sing but is determined to learn and practice hard, we will support their entry into the course.

Students are encouraged to take instrumental or vocal lessons and join music ensembles to develop their skills and supplement classroom learning.

High achievement and attitude grades in Form 3 Core Music and elementary music-reading skills are necessary.

Course description/aims: The course provides a well-rounded music education, encompassing fundamental music concepts, historical understanding, creative expression in performing and creating, critical listening, analysis, and theory. Students will also develop their ability to interpret music and refine their listening and ear-training skills.

By completing the course, students will have developed the necessary knowledge, understanding and skills to continue their study in Form 5 Pre-Q Music.

Course outline: This option Music class aims to engage students in comprehensively exploring music, focusing on various genres, musical elements, historical contexts, and creative expression.

Students will develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of music through theoretical knowledge, practical activities, listening exercises, and group collaborations, enhance their musical skills, and nurture creativity.

Performance and Collaboration: Opportunities for individual and group performances, as well as the implementation of knowledge, skills, and exposure to various genres and styles of performance skills
Composing: students will develop their skills as music composers through exposure to a broader range of genres and styles. Creating processes involves theoretical knowledge, practical exercises, and guided projects using Digital Audio Workstation and notation software
Theory of Music: understand how music is written and organised to clarify its meaning to musicians
Aural and listening skills: recognise and describe individual components of melody, rhythm, and harmony, as well as recognise and describe detail and effect in a wide range of genres and styles
Analysis: recognise and analyse the musical structure and compositional devices in written music, describe and analyse our music and the music of others

Methods of assessment: The coursework comprises composition assignments, presentation, and performance. Students will be assessed regularly throughout the year. The examination is based on each unit’s work, comprising listening analysis, aural transcription, theory, and musical knowledge essays.

Continuation of subject: Form 4 Option Music is a preparatory course for Pre-Q Music in Form 5. More advanced students who did not take Form 4 Option Music will be accepted in consultation with the Head of Music.

Prizegiving Award: The R. H. Radford Memorial Prize is awarded to the student with the highest aggregate in Form 4 Music at the end of the year.

Form 5 (Pre-Q):

Prerequisites: Students should be currently and actively engaged in learning and playing an instrument or singing. Students with appropriate musical knowledge and performance ability may gain entry on application to the Head of Music. Students are strongly encouraged to have in-school itinerant tuition or private lessons and play in co-curricular music groups.

Course description/aims: This course offers an immersive and dynamic exploration of music for students with a genuine passion for music and an eagerness to refine their musical abilities and knowledge. It is thoughtfully structured to develop students’ comprehension of music theory, historical contexts, performance techniques, composition skills, and critical listening. Engaging activities and interactive lessons guide students’ investigation of diverse musical genres, styles, and cultural influences. Committed students achieve highly in Cambridge AS Music and NCEA Level 2 Music.

Course outline:

Performing:

Technical competence in one or more instruments/singing
Interpretative understanding of the music performed.

Composing:

Creating original compositions
Notation, using staff notation and digital audio station.

Listening and Analysis:

Aural awareness, perception, and knowledge of Western music of the baroque, classical, Romantic and 20th Century periods, including Jazz, Blues, Pop, and Rock
Detailed knowledge and understanding of the features of Music and compositional devices.
Analyse and investigate two works from different periods/genres/traditions, examining the structure, harmony, and development of musical elements, theme, style, and historical and technological context.

Theory and Aural:

Sound technical knowledge of notation conventions, keys, scales, cadences, intervals, rhythm, and time signatures, including compound time and grouping notes, as well as rests and harmony.
The understanding and ability to listen to and transcribe (write out melodic, rhythmic, and harmonic dictation and cadences

Methods of assessment: Students are assessed in listening and analysis, aural transcription, essay, and music theory. Composition, performance, and musical knowledge will provide marks for coursework grades.

Continuation of subject: This course prepares students for the Form 6 Music option at Cambridge AS Level or NCEA Level 2. Music is an option for Form 7 and is an approved subject for University Entrance.

Form 6 (NCEA Level 2)

Prerequisites: Students must have completed Form 5 Pre-Q Music and taken instrument or voice lessons for at least three years. Students with appropriate musical knowledge and performance ability may gain entry on application to the Head of Music. Students are strongly encouraged to have in-school itinerant tuition or private lessons and play in co-curricular music groups.

Recommended achievement levels:

Students who have passed Form 5 Music Option have an appropriate achievement level to study NCEA Level 2 Music
Students with Grade 5 Practical with an appropriate achievement level to study NCEA Level 2 Music
Students who have not had lessons on an instrument or voice for three years are not recommended to take NCEA Level 2 Music

Course description/aims: Students will explore different musical elements, gain practical experience, and deepen their appreciation and understanding of music through an engaging and comprehensive exploration of a broad range of music genres and styles. It is well suited for students who have a solid understanding of music and want to further develop their performance, composition, listening, analysis and music theory skills.

Learn the language of music
Develop musical ideas
Communicate and interpret meaning in music
Understand music in context

Course outline and methods of assessment:

91270 – Perform two substantial pieces of music as a featured soloist [6 Credits, Internal]
91271 – Compose two substantial pieces of music [6 Credits, Internal]
91273 – Devise instrumentation for an ensemble [4 Credits, Internal]
91275 – Demonstrate aural understanding through written representation [4 Credits, External]
91278 – Investigate an aspect of New Zealand music [4 Credits, Internal]

The optional standards listed below are available for students with a strong interest in understanding music, research and analysis skills, musical knowledge, and advanced listening and notation skills:

91272 – Demonstrate ensemble skills by performing a substantial piece of music as a member of a group [4 Credits, Internal]
91274 – Perform a substantial piece of music as a featured soloist on a second instrument [3 Credits, Internal]
91276 – Demonstrate knowledge of conventions in a range of music scores [4 credits, External]

Continuation of subject: This course prepares students for Form 7 NCEA Level 3 Music.

Form 6 and 7 (AS)

Prerequisites: Students must have completed Form 5 Pre-Q Music. Students with appropriate musical knowledge and performance ability may gain entry on application to the Head of Music. Students are strongly encouraged to have in-school itinerant tuition or private lessons and play in cocurricular music groups.

Recommended achievement levels:

Exceptional students may take AS and A Level in one year with the advance approval of the Head of Music
Students who have passed Form 5 Option Music have an appropriate achievement level to study AS Music
Students who hold Grade 5 Music Performance and Theory certificates have an appropriate achievement level to study AS Music
Students who do not play an instrument or sing at Grade 5 level or higher are not recommended to take AS Music

Course description/aims: Cambridge AS Music offers an immersive and rigorous study of music for students with a genuine passion for the subject. This course will deepen students’ musical skills and knowledge, encompassing music theory, history, composition, and performance. Emphasis is placed on fostering a comprehensive understanding of music, spanning diverse styles, genres, and historical periods, enabling students to develop a well-rounded appreciation of music as an art form.

Course outline: Students will learn compositional techniques, performance practice, and understanding and connecting music in the context of set works and a broad range of genres and traditions. They will develop practical musical skills in performing and composing.

Methods of assessment:

Listening Paper in Music of the Western Tradition (2-hour external examination)
Practical Musicianship Coursework internally assessed and externally moderated – a 6-10-minute solo performance and two contrasting original compositions of two minutes each

Continuation of subject: This course prepares students for A2 Music in Form 7. This course prepares students for tertiary study in Music and, further, a wide range of industries, such as a musician, composers, songwriters, music producers, sound engineers, music teachers, music therapists, music journalists, music directors, music publishers and a music technology specialist.

Form 7 (NCEA Level 3)

Prerequisites: Students must have completed NCEA Level 2 Music, or Grade 6 Music Performance. Students with appropriate musical knowledge and performance ability may gain entry on application to the Head of Music. Students are expected to have in-school itinerant tuition or private lessons and play in co-curricular music groups.

Recommended achievement levels:

Students who have passed NCEA Level 2 music or have an appropriate achievement level to study NCEA Level 3 Music
Students who hold Grade 6 Music Performance and Theory certificates have an appropriate achievement level to study this course
Students who do not play an instrument or sing at Grade 6 level or higher are not recommended to take this course

Course description/aims: The NCEA Level 3 Music course caters to students with a strong musical foundation, providing an extensive exploration of advanced music theory, composition, performance, listening analysis and aural transcription. Through practical and theoretical activities, students will deepen their skills and knowledge, showcasing their abilities as soloists and ensemble members, composing original music, analysing diverse musical works, and reinforcing their understanding of music theory. It aims to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for tertiary-level music studies or careers in the music industry, serving as a solid foundation for future academic or professional pathways in music.

Course outline and methods of assessment:

91416 – Perform two programmes of music as a featured soloist [8 Credits, Internal]
91419 – Communicate musical intention by composing three original pieces of music [8 Credits, Internal]
91420 – Integrate aural skills into written representation [4 Credits, External]
91421 – Demonstrate understanding of harmonic and tonal conventions in a range of music scores [4 credits, External]
91425 – Research a music topic [6 Credits, Internal]

91418 – Demonstrate ensemble skills by performing two substantial pieces of music as a member of a group [4 Credits, Internal]
91417 – Perform a programme of music as a featured soloist on a second instrument [4 Credits, Internal]

Continuation of subject: This course prepares students for tertiary study in Music and, further, a wide range of industries, such as musicians, composers, songwriters, music producers, sound engineers, music teachers, music therapists, music journalists, music directors, music publisher and a music technology specialist.

Form 7 (A2)

Prerequisites: Student must have achieved an A, B or C grade in AS Music with Components 1 and 2. Students are expected to have in-school itinerant tuition or private lessons and play in extracurricular music groups.

Recommended achievement levels:

Students who have gained an A, B or C grade in AS Music have an appropriate achievement level to study A2 Music
Students who have not completed AS Music Components 1 and 2 are ineligible to enter the A2 Music course

Course descriptions/aims: This course enables students to enhance their musical knowledge and skills within a broader cultural framework. Through composing and performing, students will deepen their understanding of music and develop their creative and interpretative abilities. They will learn to communicate their musical understanding effectively, supporting their judgments with well-researched evidence and analytical arguments.

This course prepares students for advanced studies in music or related disciplines at the university level. Equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge will prepare them to excel in their musical pursuits and lay a strong foundation for future academic and professional endeavours.

Course outline: This course focuses on developing students’ skills in attentive and responsive listening, understanding the underlying processes in music, effectively communicating knowledge and musical insights, and demonstrating technical proficiency and interpretive competence in performance and composition.

Methods of assessments: Students will be assessed externally in their two Practical Musicianship Coursework components. There are no school-based examinations for this course.

Component 3: Extended Performance (15-20 minutes performance and a research report)
Component 4: Extended Composition (two contrasting compositions and a research report)
Component 5: Investigating Music (essay and a reflective statement)

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our staff today.

Music

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