Introduction
The IB Music syllabus can feel complex at first glance. Unlike subjects with only exams, IB Music blends performance, composition, and research into one creative course. Understanding the syllabus breakdown is essential for organizing your time, balancing components, and preparing effectively for assessment.
This guide will give you a clear overview of the IB Music syllabus, including both Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL) requirements.
IB Music Syllabus Overview
The syllabus is structured around three core components:
- Exploring Music — Researching, analyzing, and reflecting on music from diverse traditions.
- Creating Music — Composing original works using notation, technology, or improvisation.
- Performing Music — Recording and presenting solo or ensemble performances.
All three are required at both SL and HL, but the depth and workload differ.
Component 1: Exploring Music
- Students research and analyze music from a variety of cultural contexts.
- Work is presented in a portfolio with written annotations and supporting materials.
- HL students must also show how this research influences their own music-making.
- Focus is on cultural awareness, critical analysis, and personal reflection.
Component 2: Creating Music
- Students compose original works across different genres and styles.
- Can include notation-based pieces, digital compositions, or improvisations.
- Program notes explain influences, processes, and decisions.
- HL requires more compositions and greater experimentation.
Component 3: Performing Music
- Students prepare and record live performances.
- Both solo and ensemble performances are accepted.
- Repertoire must show variety, technical skill, and expression.
- HL requires longer performance recordings with greater range of repertoire.
SL vs HL Syllabus Breakdown
Standard Level (SL)
- Exploring Music: Portfolio with research and reflections.
- Creating Music: Fewer total minutes of original music.
- Performing Music: Shorter performance recordings.
Higher Level (HL)
- Exploring Music: Portfolio plus reflection on influence of research on personal work.
- Creating Music: More compositions with greater technical and stylistic variety.
- Performing Music: Longer recordings with higher expectations for repertoire and interpretation.
Teaching Hours
- SL: 150 hours of guided teaching.
- HL: 240 hours of guided teaching.
This difference explains why HL students are expected to produce more depth and variety.
Skills Developed in IB Music
The syllabus is designed to develop:
- Musical analysis (critical listening and writing).
- Creative composition (using traditional and digital methods).
- Performance confidence (technical and expressive skills).
- Cultural awareness (studying diverse traditions).
- Reflection (linking research and practice).
Common Student Questions
Q1: Can I focus on only one component, like performance?
No — all three components are required for assessment.
Q2: Do I need to be classically trained for IB Music?
Not at all. Any genre or tradition is valid if presented with reflection and depth.
Q3: How important is cultural diversity in the syllabus?
Very — examiners expect exploration of music beyond your main style or culture.
Q4: Can I use digital music software?
Yes — tools like Logic, GarageBand, Sibelius, and FL Studio are encouraged.
Q5: Do SL and HL students share the same syllabus?
Yes, but HL students complete more work and show deeper engagement.
Conclusion
The IB Music syllabus is built on exploring, creating, and performing. While both SL and HL students complete all three, HL requires greater depth, variety, and reflection. Understanding the syllabus breakdown early helps you plan your workload, balance components, and prepare for success in this rewarding course.
