Course Outline
Students will study a wide range of music and topics over the three years of study at junior cycle.
All topics are taught through Composition, Aural and Performance.
The main topics covered are as follows;
Basic Music Theory
Musical Instruments and Instrument of the Orchestra
Musical Eras and History of Western Music Overview
Forms and Structures in Music
Eight Set Songs – (There are 3 sets here A, B and C which rotate each year. For Information on this year’s set please see the music department page.)
Three Set Works - (Again there are 3 sets here A, B and C which rotate each year. For Information on this year’s set please see the music department page.)
Irish Traditional Music
Melodic and Rhythmic Dictation
Eight Choice Songs and Six Choice Works
Aural Skills (Listening Skills)
Triads and Chords
Melody Writing
Harmony
General Study
Practical or Project Work
The Practical exam is worth 100 marks (25%) of this and is usually examined around Easter time.
For the Practical students prepare and perform 2 pieces in each of two different disciplines. (i.e. 4 pieces in total)
Examples of Disciplines are;
Solo Singing
Group Singing
Group Instrument
Solo Piano
Solo Flute
Solo Saxophone
Solo Classical Guitar
Students can instead choose to do 3 pieces on one discipline but it is not recommended as the choice above of two disciplines is a better way to gain the best marks possible in the exam.
Assessment
In total there are 400 marks available for the Junior Certificate Music Exam.
The Practical exam is worth 100 marks (25%) of this and is usually examined around Easter time.
The Written Paper is worth 300 marks (75%) of this and takes place in June.
The Higher Level Paper
Q.1. Set Songs – 30 marks (7.5%)
Q.2 Set Works – 30 marks (7.5%)
Q.3 Irish Music – 40 marks (10%)
Q.4 Dictation – 40 marks (10%)
Q.5 Choice Songs and Works and Aural Skills – 40 marks (10%)
Q.6 Triads – 20 marks (5%)
Q.7 Melody Writing – 35 marks (8.75%)
Q.8 Harmony – 45 marks (11.25%)
Q.9 Original Composition (INSTEAD OF QUESTIONS 6-8) – 100 marks (25%)
Q.10 Chosen General Study – 20 marks (5%)