Music Department
Music has always been celebrated and featured in Blackrock’s activities, but there is no doubt that in recent times it has gone from strength to strength.
We in the music department endeavour to provide a holistic and varied approach to all genres of music. All our students are encouraged to participate in a wide range of musical activities from college musical productions to choirs, orchestra, liturgical events, competitions, concerts, individual instrument classes, traditional bands and rock bands. We believe that this varied programme fosters a love of music within the curriculum and also as a co-curricular activity.
Music as a subject, both at Junior and Senior Cycle, develops creativity and emphasises the integration of the three key activities: Listening, Performing and Composing. The syllabus structure provides a fully balanced musical experience, central to the students’ musicality.
Junior Certificate Music:
This two-year course is based on the three primary skills- Composing, Listening and Performing. Students do not need to have studied music in order to take this subject at Junior Certificate level. Students study set songs and works of all styles of music and undertake a General Study and a practical exam on their chosen instrument or voice. The remainder of the course consists of general listening skills, composition, musical literacy skills and Irish music.
Transition Year Music:
This one-year programme is designed to build on the three skills focused on at Junior Certificate level but also caters for students who have not studied music before. Composition is emphasised by the use of music technology, recording and performing opportunities. We are lucky to have excellent technology resources at our disposal in the College. Within this varied programme, students also study music theory, Irish music, score-reading, aural skills and group performances are also studied.
Leaving Certificate Music:
This two-year course consists of the three main components: Composing, Listening and Performing. The students undertake an extra elective in one of these three activities. The syllabus content caters for all instruments, abilities and levels. Composition- Melody and Harmony, Set works, Aural Skills and Irish music are the six components of the written paper. Students can elect to perform on their chosen instrument or as part of a group for 50% of their Leaving Certificate exam. The college provides the students with the opportunity to study music technology using the Sibelius software as part of their practical exam. This elective can be chosen for 25% of the overall mark.
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