Edexcel Music GCSE

Edexcel Music GCSE

1. Composing Criteira A

   • This is specific to the Ideas that you come up with
     • The examiner will be looking for:
       • Note Addition
       • Note diminution
       • Augmentation
       • Diminution
       • Phasing/Phase Shifting
       • Metamorphosis
         • Changing notes gradually over time
       • Use of texture
         • Layering
       • Interesting rhythms
       • Possible use of looping
     • Theme development
       • Variation
         • Retrograde
         • Retrograde invert
         • Invert
         • Theme links to here also
       • Use of dynamics
       • Use of Drone

2. Criteria B

   • Simply put... Does your music sound similar to other minimalist pieces?
   • You have a choice
     • Logic Pro/ Garageband
       • In a sense - Easier to record
         • Lots of composition possibilities based on VST and Plugins
           • Harder to print music as you intended.
     • Sibelius
       • Physically see the music as you intend for it to be written
         • Can easily export the music into sound
       • Harder to record live, but many instruments are included.
   • Resources also covers
     • Use of instruments
     • Compositions recorded live

3. Criteria C

   • 2 minute composition as a minimum expectation
   • Structure relates to how the composition is but together
     • Cyclic
     • Binary
       • A and B
     • Ternary
     • Strophic
     • Call and Response
     • Arch Shape
     • Sonata form
       • Exposition
       • Development
       • Recapitulation
   • Structural devices
     • Use of different textures
       • Polyphony
       • Hetrophonic
       • Monophonic
       • Phasing
     • Change of key
     • Modulation
     • Cadences
     • Dynamics

4. Criteria D

   • Melodic line present clear themes
   • Melodic lines show clear ideas for progression/variation
   • Your melodic line uses a variety of pitch
   • Melodic structures
     • Conjunct and Disjunct
     • Scalic Melodies
   • Melodic lines may loop

5. Criterion G

   • Rhythms may be syncopated
   • Rhythms show African influences
   • May use complex cross rhythms
   • Layered versions of the same tune
   • Choice to change the tempo within your music

6. Criteria E

   • Your choice of instrumentation can effect the overall sound
   • Try to use extended chords 7ths, minor and Major 7ths
   • make sure your chords and melodies make sense.

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