OCR GCSE Music
Explore your course, one topic at a time.
Course J536
Course version · J536Version from Sept 2020Change version
Choose your course version: the course code is on your timetable or a past paper. Not sure? We’ll start you on the most likely version when you sign up.
Explore your topics
8 topics
Course topics8 topics
- The Concerto Through Time (Baroque, Classical and Romantic concerto; development of orchestra and soloist role, 1650–1910)
- Musical Elements (Organisation of pitch, tonality, structure, sonority, texture, tempo/metre/rhythm, dynamics)
- Rhythms of the World (Traditional rhythmic music from India/Punjab, Eastern Mediterranean/Middle East, Africa, Central and South America)
- Conventions of Pop (Rock 'n' Roll 1950s–60s, Rock Anthems 1970s–80s, Pop Ballads 1970s–90s, Solo Artists 1990–present)
- My Music (Learner's own instrument, its capabilities, techniques, genres and ensembles)
- Musical Language (Staff notation, chord symbols, musical vocabulary and terminology)
- Musical Contexts (Purpose, intention, audience, time and place)
- Film Music (Music composed for film, Western Classical music used in film, video game soundtracks)
Assessment and exam guidance
What Gets Top Grades
A*/Grade 9
Knowledge & Understanding
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
- Uses correct subject-specific terminology
- Shows detailed understanding of concepts
- Makes accurate connections between topics
- Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge
Application
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
- Selects relevant knowledge for the question
- Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
- Uses examples appropriately
- Shows awareness of context
Analysis & Evaluation
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
- Constructs logical chains of reasoning
- Considers multiple perspectives
- Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
- Acknowledges limitations and nuances
Key Command Words
OCR
State
1 mark
Give a single fact or term
Identify
1 mark
Name or select
Describe
2-4 marks
Account of process or features
Explain
3-6 marks
Give reasons with BUSINESS-FACING outcomes
Analyse
6-9 marks
Examine methodically showing cause→effect→outcome
Evaluate
9-12 marks
Judge, weigh up evidence, reach SYNOPTIC conclusion
Tips and common mistakes
Common Exam Mistakes
Pitfalls to avoid in your exams
- •Treating suggested repertoire as set works
- •Failing to link musical elements to the historical or social context
- •Ignoring the development of the orchestra and soloist role over time
- •Lack of attention to the changing venue and audience requirements
- •Confusing terminology between different musical styles or periods.
- •Inaccurate identification of intervals or chord types.
- •Failure to use appropriate musical vocabulary when making critical judgements.
- •Misinterpreting key signatures or time signatures in score-based questions.
Top Examiner Tips
Expert advice for exam success
- •Focus on aural perception and the ability to identify musical features in unfamiliar extracts
- •Use appropriate musical vocabulary and terminology related to the Area of Study
- •Be prepared to compare and contrast musical extracts
- •Apply knowledge of musical elements to score-related questions
- •Make critical judgements about music based on contextual understanding
- •Use the provided 'Language for Learning' list to ensure familiarity with expected terminology.
- •Practice aural recognition of musical elements and devices regularly.
- •Ensure you can identify and name features heard in unfamiliar music extracts.
Ready for a little practice?
Create your account to start practising Music.
Start free
7 days Premium · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge