GCSE Music (exam example notes)

Question 1: Extracts (Listening)

Identify: 

• Tonality (major/minor)
• Type of composition 

[Each correct answer = 1/2 mark]

Type of compositions:

• Cerdd dant - Voices accompanied by harp (semi-impro)
• Hymn-tune - Church/Congregation
• Rock - Harsh/Impacting
• Art song - Classic
• Folk song - Traditional (a narrow range of pitch)
• Ballad - Tells a story
• Reggae - Off beat
• Rap - Poetic (fast)
• Retro-pop - Looking backwards

E.g

Extract 1:

Tonality: Major   Type of composition: Ballad

Extract 2:

Tonality: Major   Type of composition: Art song

Extract 3:

Tonality: Minor   Type of composition: Cerdd dant

Extract 4: 

Tonality: Major   Type of composition: Reggae

Extract 5: 

Tonality: Major   Type of composition: Folk

Extract 6: 

Tonality: Minor   Type of composition: Hymn

Question 2: Compare piece (two versions)

E.g. Version 1

Instruments/Voices:

a) Melody (1 mark)

• Female voice
• Suprano

b) Accompaniment (backing/ensemble) (2 marks)

• Male choir 
• Percussion
• Brass band

Duration: (tempo, pulse, metre, rhythm) (2 marks)

• 3/4 signature
• Moderato

Other points of interest: (5 marks)

• Diatonic harmonies
• Major tonality
• Thick texture
• Repetition
• Traditional style

Version 2

Instruments/Voices:

a) Melody (1 mark)

• Male voice
• Tenor

b) Accompaniment (backing/ensemble) (2 marks)

• Tenor…