What to Include in an IB Music Portfolio

This proves you can generate, refine, and evaluate musical ideas.

Step 3: Include Performing

Your Performing section must demonstrate both technical and expressive skill. Include:

• Solo performances recorded with clear audio and/or video.
• Ensemble performances showing collaboration and balance.
• Notes on repertoire choices, style, and interpretation.
• Reflections on preparation, practice, and growth.

Examiners look for control, expression, and awareness of cultural context.

Step 4: Include Reflections Throughout

Reflections should not be an afterthought—they should be woven into every section:

• How exploration influenced your performance and composition.
• How creating changed your understanding of musical traditions.
• How challenges pushed you to grow as a musician.

IB values reflection as much as technical skill because it shows critical thinking.

Step 5: Provide Evidence of Process

Examiners don’t just want polished outcomes—they want to see your journey. Include:

• Draft scores and recordings.
• Listening journals and practice logs.
• Notes on how research shaped your creative and performance choices.

Evidence of process demonstrates persistence and depth.

Step 6: End with a Cohesive Conclusion

A portfolio that feels connected scores higher. Conclude with:

• A summary of what you learned.
• Reflections on how the three components connect.
• A statement of your growth as a musician and learner.

This ties your portfolio into a clear, examiner-friendly narrative.

FAQs

1. Do I need to include all three components in my IB Music portfolio?
Yes. Exploring, Creating, and Performing are all required. A portfolio missing one of these sections will not meet IB standards.

2. How many compositions or performances should I include?
The exact number depends on IB requirements, but aim for variety and depth. Most students submit at least two to three compositions and multiple performances that total the required length.

3. Can I include music from outside school ensembles?
Yes. Examiners care about quality, not where the performance took place. As long as the recording is clear and meets IB guidelines, it’s valid.

4. What if my portfolio feels too long?
Focus on clarity and relevance. Don’t overload your portfolio with unnecessary extras—make sure every element contributes to demonstrating growth and meeting IB criteria.

Conclusion

Your IB Music portfolio should be a balanced showcase of your skills, creativity, and learning journey. By including work from all three components, supporting it with process evidence, and reflecting on your growth, you’ll create a portfolio that is both examiner-ready and personally meaningful.

RevisionDojo provides strategies to help students design complete, well-structured portfolios that highlight strengths and meet IB expectations.

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