WAEC GCE Music Syllabus 2025/2026
The 2025/2026 WAEC GCE Music syllabus is designed to assess candidates’ understanding of music theory, history, performance, and appreciation. It prepares students for careers in music education, performance, composition, and production.
This syllabus applies to candidates sitting for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) for Private Candidates (GCE). It emphasizes musical literacy, creativity, and cultural awareness across African and Western traditions.
Scheme of Examination
- Paper 1: Objectives
- 60 multiple-choice questions covering theory, history, and appreciation
- Duration: 1 hour
- Marks: 60
- Paper 2: Theory and Composition
- Section A: Theory of Music (answer 2 out of 3 questions)
- Section B: Composition and Analysis (answer 2 out of 3 questions)
- Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Marks: 80
- Paper 3: Performance and Aural (where applicable)
- Solo and group performance (voice or instrument)
- Aural tests: rhythm, melody, intervals
- Conducted in designated centers
- Marks: 60
Core Syllabus Topics
1. Theory of Music
- Staff notation and solfa notation
- Time signatures and key signatures
- Scales: major, minor, chromatic, modal
- Intervals, chords, and cadences
- Transposition and modulation
- Musical terms and signs
2. Composition and Analysis
- Melody writing and harmonization
- Four-part harmony and SATB arrangements
- Rhythmic dictation and melodic dictation
- Analysis of short musical passages
3. Music History and Literature
- Western classical periods: Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Modern
- African traditional music: instruments, forms, performance contexts
- Nigerian art music and composers (e.g., Fela Sowande, Ayo Bankole)
- Popular music genres: highlife, juju, afrobeat, gospel
4. Aural Training
- Recognition of intervals, scales, and rhythms
- Dictation of short melodies and rhythms
- Identification of instruments and voice types
5. Performance
- Vocal or instrumental performance (solo or ensemble)
- Sight-reading and interpretation
- Stage presence and expression
Sample Questions
Objective Example:
Which of the following is a perfect interval?
- Major third
- Minor sixth
- Perfect fifth
- Augmented fourth
Answer: C. Perfect fifth
Theory Example:
Write a melody of 8 bars in G major using simple time. Add appropriate phrasing and dynamics.
Answer Tip: Use stepwise motion, include a cadence, and mark dynamics like mf, crescendo, etc.
History Example:
Discuss the contributions of Fela Sowande to Nigerian art music.
Answer Tip: Mention his fusion of Western classical forms with Yoruba musical elements.