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:

http://www.phsc.vic.edu.au/music-dept/instrumental-music/


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 DetailsMarks%
AoS1 | A short, written/oral task10

20%
AoS2 | 2x tasks TBC30
AoS3 | 2x tasks TBC40
TOTAL80



Unit 4 - SAC

Task DetailsMarks%
AoS1 | NA-

10%
AoS2 | NA-
AoS3 | 2x tasks TBC20
TOTAL20


End of Year Examinations

Examination DetailsDuration%

Live performance drawing on skills from Outcome 1 (AoS1) in Units 3 and 4.

Solo or group setting.

TBC50%
Aural and written examination drawings on knowledge and skills from Outcome 3 (AoS3) in Units 3 and 4.60mins20%


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 StudyUnit 3 OutcomesUnit 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.

Give me all the details I want to know more:

VCAA Music Performance

PHSC Music Performance 3&4 Wiki Page