Leaving Cert Music consists of 4 parts. Each part is worth 25% of the exam. Total marks awarded for the exam is 400. The components of the exam are:
Listening Paper This consists of 6 questions – 4 set works, Irish Music and an unprepared Aural Skills question. Total – 100 marks.
Composition Paper This consists of 2 questions – a melody writing question and a harmony or backing chords question. Total – 100 marks.
Practical Each student must play or sing 4 songs/pieces, either as a solo or as part of a group. Total – 100 marks.
Higher Level Elective At higher level the student then chooses one of above areas in which to do extra work. Most students choose to do extra Practical work, which consist of a Computer Option, in De La Salle College we use a programme called Sibelius. This involves inputting one score of 4 parts onto computer using Sibelius. This is examined the same day as the Practical exam in March/April. Total – 100 marks.
Ordinary Level The ordinary level student does not need to do any extra work. Whichever of the first 3 components of Listening, Composing and Performing (or Sibelius) he scores highest on, that mark is doubled by the examiners.
Skills needed? An ability to read/write Music is desirable but can be taught in 5th Year. Ability to sing/play any instrument is also desirable.
