VCE Music offers students opportunities to engage in the practice of performing, creating and studying music that is representative of diverse genres, styles and cultures. Students can specialise in one or more approaches to the study of music, depending on their VCE program overall and the post-VCE pathways that they may be interested in following.
Entry
Music Investigation may be accessed in Year 11 or Year 12, but not both. Whilst there are no formal prerequisites for entry to Unit 3 and 4 of Music Investigation, it is strongly recommended that students have a background of commitment and achievement in music, in order to make the most of the opportunities presented in the course of study. The course is comprised of 50% practically-based performance derived from a Research Topic of the student's choice, and 50% school-based assessment on the research of how this musical topic is demonstrated and what techniques are required to perform the music. Where classes are less than five students, a moderating partnership is entered into. For further details please email the Director of Music.
Music Investigation Unit 3 and 4 involves both performance research in a Focus Area selected by the student and performance of works that are representative of that Focus Area. This Focus Area is developed into a Research Topic statement that is submitted to VCAA for approval. Students' research the demonstration of music characteristics and performance techniques representative of the Focus Area underpinning the investigation, composition/arrangement/improvisation and performance areas of study. Aural and theoretical musicianship skills are assumed and developed across all areas of study, but are not explicitly examined externally.
Investigation - Outcome 1
On the completion of this unit the student should be able to demonstrate understanding of the performance practices, context/s and influences on music works.
Arrangement - Outcome 2
On the completion of this unit the student should be able to arrange and discuss music characteristics and performance practices.
Performance - Outcome 3
On completion of this unit the student should be able to present a performance of music works that communicates the understanding of the Focus Area.
Investigation - Outcome 1
On the completion of this unit the students should be able to evaluate and present their interpretive approach to a program of music works.
Arrangement - Outcome 2
On the completion of this unit the student should be able to arrange and perform a music work and discuss the use of music characteristics, instrumental techniques, performance techniques and conventions of the work.
Performance - Outcome 3
On completion of this unit the student should be able to demonstrate artistic intent and understanding of the Focus Area in a cohesive and engaging performance of music works.
1. School-assessed Coursework tasks which contribute 50% to the Study Score
Unit 3
Outcome 1: A report on research = 12% of Study Score
Outcome 2: A presentation that includes performance of exercises created by the student = 12% of Study Score
Outcome 3: A response to questions about material presented in the report and presentation = 6% of Study Score
Unit 4
Outcome 2: A composition, improvisation or arrangement document with a performance = 16% of Study Score
Outcome 2: An explanation of how the work is representative of the music style, tradition and/or genre, in oral or multimedia format = 4% of Study Score
2. External, end-of-year performance examination which contributes 50% to the Study Score.
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Instrumental Music Lesson Assistance
Students undertaking VCE Units 3 and 4 Music Investigation are entitled to one free 45-minute instrumental music lesson each week during school time up to their performance examination early in Term 4. The Geelong College is only able to support payments to members of the College music or College instrumental staff and these lessons are only to be conducted on our premises.