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From the June 2023 series onwards, we’re no longer providing CDs for the GCSE, AS and A Level Music exams. We’ve provided more details below and in our subject update.
This guidance relates to the following qualifications:
In AS and A Level Music, the listening audio tracks are operated by individual candidates (personal playback machines used must have a fast-rewind facility).
For GCSE Music, the examination can last up to 1 hour 30 minutes. However, the time allowed is the duration of the audio track. The audio track contains pre-recorded pauses at the beginning to read the questions and at the end to complete responses. Once the audio track has finished playing, this is the end of the examination.
We strongly advise holding listening tests in a room which is suitable for no more than 30 candidates:
The audio tracks must be spot-checked for recording and sound quality two working days before the date of the exam, preferably in the exam room using the playback equipment that will be used for the tests.
Digital audio files must not be removed from the centre for checking.
For GCSE Music, where recordings are controlled by the invigilator, the audio track must not be stopped except in the case of a serious emergency.
Noise from outside the exam room does not constitute a serious emergency and the recording must not be stopped. Please warn candidates of this before the test begins.
In the event of the audio track being stopped in a serious emergency, it should be restarted at exactly the same place.
You must complete JCQ Form M2 to tell us at which point on the recording the interruption took place, the nature of the incident and the length of the interruption. Please email your completed form to us.
If there is good reason to doubt whether certain items have been heard by all candidates, these items should be identified in the report and the reason for doubt given.