Key Stage 4
🎵 Music
The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Music develops students' skills in performing, composing, and listening across a broad range of musical styles and traditions.
Overview
The Pearson Edexcel International GCSE in Music develops students' musical knowledge and skills through three integrated areas: performing, composing, and listening. Students explore music from a wide range of genres, cultures, and historical periods, and develop both practical skills and analytical understanding.
What Students Study
GCSE Music Online — Develop Your Musical Talent
Our GCSE Music online course allows students to develop their creativity and musical understanding through live, interactive lessons led by experienced UK teachers. Whether you are an aspiring performer, composer, or simply passionate about music, this course builds a strong foundation across theory, performance, and composition.
- Music theory and analysis
- Popular and world music genres
- Performance practice and techniques
- Composition skills, including using music technology
- Listening and critical appraisal of music from different periods and cultures
Component 1: Performing
30% of the total IGCSE. Students perform a programme of music on their chosen instrument or voice. The performance is internally assessed and externally moderated. Students must perform at least one solo piece and may include ensemble work. The total duration of the programme must be at least four minutes.
Component 2: Composing
30% of the total IGCSE. Students submit two original compositions. At least one composition must be in response to a brief set by Pearson Edexcel. Work is internally assessed and externally moderated. Compositions demonstrate understanding of musical elements, structure, and style.
Component 3: Listening and Appraising
40% of the total IGCSE. Written examination of 1 hour 45 minutes. Students answer questions on musical extracts drawn from set works across different areas of study. The examination tests knowledge of musical elements, context, and the ability to appraise and compare music.
Course Details
Assessment
Assessment is split across three components. Component 1: Performing — 30%, internally assessed and externally moderated. Component 2: Composing — 30%, internally assessed and externally moderated. Component 3: Listening and Appraising — 40%, written examination of 1 hour 45 minutes.
Course Duration
The IGCSE Music is a two-year programme. During those two years, students have access to live online classes, academic mentor support, and one-to-one subject support.
Course Outcome
International GCSE qualifications enable successful progression onto International A Level and beyond. Upon completing the course, students will achieve a Pearson Edexcel qualification, providing that all examinations have been completed and passed.
Entry Requirements
Students are not required to read music notation to begin this course. A willingness to perform on an instrument or voice and to engage with music theory is expected. Students whose English is not their first language are required to either sit an internal English assessment or provide an English certificate at a minimum level B2.