Introduction
When choosing IB Music, one of the biggest decisions is whether to take it at Standard Level (SL) or Higher Level (HL). Both follow the same overall structure of exploring, creating, and performing music, but the workload, expectations, and assessment requirements differ.
This guide will explain the key differences between IB Music SL and HL to help you decide which is right for you.
Similarities Between SL and HL
- Both include the Exploring Music, Creating Music, and Performing Music components.
- Both emphasize cultural awareness, experimentation, and reflection.
- Both are assessed using the same general criteria (variety, technical skill, creativity, and coherence).
- Both count equally toward the IB Diploma and can lead to a level 7.
Key Differences Between SL and HL
1. Performance Requirements
- SL: Shorter total performance time, fewer pieces required.
- HL: Longer performance recordings (often 20+ minutes), with greater variety of repertoire expected.
2. Composition (Creating Music)
- SL: Fewer total minutes of original music required.
- HL: More compositions, showing greater experimentation and technical skill.
3. Exploration Work (Portfolio)
- SL: Focuses on documenting research, analysis, and reflection.
- HL: Requires deeper analysis and explicit demonstration of how research influences personal musical practice.
4. Comparative and Cultural Awareness
- SL: Must demonstrate cultural awareness, but on a smaller scale.
- HL: Examiners expect broader cultural exploration and more detailed connections between studied works and the student’s own music-making.
5. Workload and Teaching Hours
- SL: 150 teaching hours.
- HL: 240 teaching hours. The extra time is designed for additional performance and deeper exploration.
Who Should Choose SL?
SL may be better if you:
- Enjoy music but don’t want to commit heavy time demands.
- Want to balance music with other challenging IB subjects.
- Prefer focusing on a smaller portfolio and shorter performances.
Who Should Choose HL?
HL may be better if you:
- Are passionate about music and want to pursue it at university or professionally.
- Enjoy composing, performing, and analyzing music in depth.
- Are willing to dedicate more time and effort to artistic exploration.
- Want the opportunity to demonstrate greater cultural and stylistic variety.
Common Misunderstandings
- “HL is only more performance time.”
False — HL requires more depth in all components, not just performance. - “SL is less respected by examiners.”
False — both SL and HL are equally respected and graded by the same standards. - “Only talented musicians should take HL.”
False — HL is about commitment and depth, not just natural talent.
FAQs on SL vs HL
Q1: Is it harder to score a 7 in HL than SL?
Not necessarily — both are equally achievable if you meet the criteria.
Q2: Can I switch from SL to HL later?
Yes, but it will require extra work to meet HL requirements.
Q3: Do universities prefer HL Music?
If applying for music or arts programs, HL may be more impressive. For other fields, SL is equally valid.
Q4: Can SL students still compose and perform a lot?
Yes — you can go beyond the minimum requirements if you enjoy it.
Q5: Should I choose HL if I’m unsure about studying music at university?
Only if you genuinely enjoy music and want the challenge. Otherwise, SL may offer better balance.
Conclusion
The difference between IB Music SL and HL comes down to depth and workload. SL students complete fewer requirements, while HL students must show greater variety, refinement, and cultural awareness. Both offer the chance to explore, create, and perform music at a high level — the right choice depends on your passion, time commitment, and long-term goals.
