Performing and Composing (Units 1 and 2): a practical overview for WJEC GCSE Music

What this covers

This overview sets out the two practical, non-examined units, Performing and Composing, which together make up 70 percent of WJEC GCSE Music. Because they are coursework rather than the written Appraising exam, the rest of this subject focuses on Appraising; this page explains what each practical unit requires, how it is assessed, and how it links to the areas of study and the written paper, so you understand the whole qualification.

The two practical units

Unit 1, Performing (35 percent) and Unit 2, Composing (35 percent) are both non-examined assessments: coursework completed over the course, marked by the school and then moderated by WJEC. They are not sat as an exam. The third unit, Appraising (30 percent), is the written listening paper.

Unit 1: Performing

Performing requires at least two performances, one solo and one ensemble, totalling a few minutes, with at least one piece linked to an area of study, plus a short programme note for one piece. It is assessed on accuracy, technical control, expression and interpretation, and in the ensemble on rapport with other players. You may perform on any instrument or voice, including options such as DJ-ing, beatboxing and sequencing.

Unit 2: Composing

Composing requires two compositions: one free composition of your own choosing and one to a WJEC-set brief linked to an area of study, totalling a few minutes, plus an evaluation of the set-brief piece. It is assessed on creativity, control of the musical elements, structure and coherence, and the use of music technology is encouraged.

Why it links to Appraising

The practical units share the same musical understanding the Appraising exam tests. Performing and composing well rely on a grasp of melody, harmony, rhythm, texture and form, and linking work to an area of study deepens that knowledge for the written paper. Revising the musical elements helps all three units at once.

How to approach the practical units

1. Choose pieces early. Pick solo and ensemble pieces and start rehearsing in good time.
2. Link to an area of study. Make sure at least one performance and the set-brief composition connect to an area of study.
3. Do the written parts. The programme note and the evaluation carry marks.
4. Control the elements. Compositions are judged on control of the musical elements, structure and coherence.
5. Use the same revision. Studying the musical elements supports performing, composing and appraising together.

For the official specification

WJEC publishes the full GCSE Music specification, guidance for teaching, and the coursework requirements at wjec.co.uk. Always confirm the exact requirements, timings and deadlines for the practical units from the current specification and WJEC's own documents, because the coursework rules are board-specific.