General introduction to the subject: Music is an artistic field, which incorporates a number of skills that can be transferable to other artistic disciplines and other subjects. The study of music comprises a diversity of applied and academic elements, which includes instrument and vocal studies, music and movement, local and international music cultures, music history and theory, accompaniment, musicianship, music composition, and choir or orchestra conducting.
Topics studied: • Theory of music which includes the understanding and research of basic harmony, composing, analysis and basic forms. • Aural Training which includes rhythmic and melodic ear training. • Musicianship which includes historical background, listening and analysing excerpts of music from different periods and different composers, and know how to express in musical terms thoughts about them. • Composition and Improvisation which includes the creation of new music and arrangements of existent music, whilst improvising upon a given rhytmic or melodic extract. • Practical Component which includes repertoire pieces for performing, sight reading, scales and technical exercises.
Class activities involved: Individual tuition for the practical component in preparation for a performance. Class group tuition for theory and musicianship, and composition which includes interactive software and music technology, listening and analysing excerpts of music from different periods and different composers.
Homework assigned: Practical component includes studying graded pieces and technical exercises and scales in the instrument. Reading, research, and understanding of content discussed in class. Working on creative and artistic projects, and on theory exercises linked to the practical component.
Assessment given: Assessment includes continuous assessment throughout the year comprising participation in class, fieldwork, performances and research on topics discussed during lessons. Summative assessment includes annual examination in practical, musicianship and theory components.
Skills acquired while studying the subject: • Listening skills • Coordination skills • Analytical and research skills • Group performance skills • Communication skills • Flexibility and adaptability skills • Ability to plan • Ability to accept and learn from criticism • Organisation skills • Creativity
Skills required to study the subject: • Ability to play the instrument chosen at beginner’s level (preferably Grade 2) • Ability to read music and work out simple theory exercises (preferably Grade 2) • Ability to concentrate • Ability to listen • Ability to keep the beat • Ability to follow a rhythmic pattern and play/tap back • Ability to sing back a simple melody (pitch) • Ability to experiment
This subject can lead you to the following Career Paths: Musician Orchestra Conductor Music Teacher Consultant with a Record Label Sound Engineer Events/Concert Organiser Entertainer in Hotels/Restaurants Composer
Mikiel Anton Vassalli 