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 Repertoire will be paired with Music Contemporary, 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?
The new Music Repertoire is for students whose musical interests are grounded in the recreation and interpretation of notated musical works, and who wish to gain and share knowledge of musical styles and performance practices. Music styles in this study will include (but are not limited to: early music, baroque, classical, romantic, 20th and 21st century art music styles, musical theatre, and classical musics outside of the Western tradition (for example, Indian, Chinese).
Students may present on any instrument for which there is an established repertoire of notated works, as per the old Music Performance 'Prescribed List of Notated Solo Works'.
While the new 2023 lists have not yet been released yet*, the following instruments have been commonly studied in this style at Princes Hill:
| Woodwind/Brass | Acoustic Strings | Electric/Other |
|---|---|---|
| Clarinet | Double Bass | Voice |
| Flute | Violoncello | Drum Kit |
| Saxophone | Violin | Electric Bass |
| Trumpet | Viola | |
| Trombone | Guitar |
*The full list of solo repertoire instruments from the old study design can be found here. We will update this page with access to the new lists once released.
While not commonly selected at Princes Hill, there is still the opportunity for students to present within this study as an ensemble based musician.
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 Repertoire 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 | 1x task TBC | 30 | |
| AoS3 | 2x tasks TBC | 40 | |
| TOTAL | 80 |
Unit 4 - SAC
| Task Details | Marks | % |
|---|---|---|
| AoS1 | NA | - | 10% |
| AoS2 | NA | - | |
| AoS3 | 1x task 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. | 20mins | 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 explain the artistic and practical considerations used to select a program of works for performance, and demonstrate a diverse range of techniques and expressive qualities. | Students will perform a final recital of up to 20 minutes' duration, demonstrating a diverse range of techniques and expressive qualities reflecting an understanding of a range of music styles and performance conventions. |
2 | Analysing for performance | Students will demonstrate and discuss performance development techniques and approaches relevant to performance of selected works, including aspects of interpretation. | Students will demonstrate and discuss techniques (technical and expressive) relevant to the performance and development of a personal interpretation of works selected for performance. |
3 | Responding | Students will discuss the interpretation of expressive elements of music, and identify, recreate, notate, and transcribe short excerpts of music using voice or instrument. | Students will discuss the interpretation of expressive elements of music in pre-recorded works and develop their auditory discrimination and memory skills through identifying, re-creating, and notating short examples. |
Give me all the details I want to know more:
VCAA: Introduction to the new VCE Music Study Design
OLD: PHSC Music Performance 3&4 Wiki Page
New Wiki page TBC