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NSW Curriculum
NSW Education Standards Authority

11–12Music 1 11–12 Syllabus (2025)

Implementation from 2027
Expand for detailed implementation advice

Content

Year 12

Music of the last 25 years (Australian focus)

Students perform, compose, listen, analyse and respond to music of the last 25 years created and composed by Australian music makers influenced by cultural, artistic and technological developments worldwide. They consider the advancements in the communication, recording, production and digital distribution of music and the interplay between tradition and innovation. Students learn how musical conventions provide a framework for creation and also support innovation. Students apply their knowledge of Compositional language to make creative decisions as they generate, structure and develop their compositions over time.

Performing
  • Use vocal and/or instrumental techniques that demonstrate the stylistic and expressive features of selected repertoire

  • Experiment with contemporary performance techniques

  • Evaluate interpretation through analysis of recordings, reflection and feedback

Listening, analysing and responding
  • Analyse and describe the use of Compositional language and stylistic influences in a range of repertoire from the last 25 years

  • Use aural skills to identify and describe melodic, harmonic, rhythmic, textural and expressive features

  • Analyse electronic and digital techniques for sound manipulation

  • Interpret Notational language relevant to the repertoire to support analysis

  • Explain ways contemporary composers, arrangers, performers and producers challenge, extend, reimagine and hybridise conventional musical styles and structures

  • Evaluate the influence of digital technologies and media on musical creation, distribution and audience reception

Creating and composing
  • Plan thematic and structural directions to shape a musical journey

  • Experiment with planning approaches, including narrative storyboarding, stylistic modelling or structural mapping to ensure structural coherence and creative interest

  • Select performing media and technologies that support compositional intent

  • Experiment with a range of approaches to create new musical ideas, including improvisation, fusion of material or generative methods

  • Explain creative intent, stylistic influences, and expressive choices

  • Document ideas, reflections and refinements as part of the compositional process

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