A new Study Design for Music is being introduced in 2023. The structure of VCE Music has significantly changed; there are now four VCE Music options at the Unit 3&4 level.
- Please note that the structure of VCE Music subjects in 2023 at PHSC will be based on enrolment numbers.
- We are initially expecting that Music Contemporary will be paired with Music Repertoire, and that Music Inquiry could run as a composite class with Music Composition.
- It is also permitted for students to study multiple VCE Music Unit 3&4 sequences as part of their Year 12 program.
What is it and why should I do it?
How much homework/study will I have?
All Unit 3 and 4 subjects require 3 - 5 hours of study per week.
It is expected that students will practise their chosen instrument/sound source for at least 2.5 hours per week (ie 5x 30min sessions). However, students aiming to access the highest marks will often spend at least 5 hours per week on their chosen instrument/sound source.
Students should also dedicate 1 - 2 hours per week practising general musical concepts/material studied in class.
We highly recommend that students enrol in one-on-one instrumental lessons. The PHSC Music Department provides access to highly experienced teachers across most instruments. Enrolment details can be found here:
What contributes to my study score?
Music Contemporary follows a similar structure to the previous 'Music Performance' study.
- Units 3 & 4 SACs will combine for GA1 and be worth 30%
- The Performance Exam will be GA2 and be worth 50%
- The Aural and Written Exam will be GA3 and be worth 20%
Unit 3 - SACs
| Task Details | Marks | % |
|---|---|---|
| AoS1 | A short, written/oral task | 10 | 20% |
| AoS2 | 2x tasks TBC | 30 | |
| AoS3 | 2x tasks TBC | 40 | |
| TOTAL | 80 |
Unit 4 - SAC
| Task Details | Marks | % |
|---|---|---|
| AoS1 | NA | - | 10% |
| AoS2 | NA | - | |
| AoS3 | 2x tasks TBC | 20 | |
| TOTAL | 20 |
End of Year Examinations
| Examination Details | Duration | % |
|---|---|---|
Live performance drawing on skills from Outcome 1 (AoS1) in Units 3 and 4. Solo or group setting. | TBC | 50% |
| Aural and written examination drawings on knowledge and skills from Outcome 3 (AoS3) in Units 3 and 4. | 60mins | 20% |
How do I satisfactorily complete the unit?
To pass any VCE unit you need to demonstrate that you have met the Outcomes for each Area of Study (Aos).
| Area of Study | Unit 3 Outcomes | Unit 4 Outcomes |
|---|---|---|
1 | Performing | Students will perform a selection of works being prepared for the performance examination, demonstrating an understanding of music style, authentic performance conventions, and a range of techniques. Students sill prepare a 'Performer's Statement of Intent' to explain their choices. | Students will perform a program of works, including one work demonstrating a creative reimagining of an existing work, relevant to their performer's Statement of Intention. |
2 | Analysing for performance | Students will demonstrate and discuss performance development techniques and approaches relevant to performance of selected works and an intended approach to a reimagined existing work. | Students will demonstrate and discuss performance development techniques and reimagining approaches relevant to performance of selected works. |
3 | Responding | Students will discuss a performer's interpretation and manipulation of musical elements and concepts in works, and identify, recreate, and notate music language concepts from examples presented. | Students will discuss a performer's interpretation and manipulation of musical elements and concepts in works, identifying and transcribing short examples of music using appropriate notation. |