Question 1

What is NCEA AS 91950 about?

Accepted Answer

This standard asks you to write a report showing that you understand how music connects to the world around it. You'll pick two pieces of music—one from a Māori context and one from another cultural context—and explain how the musical elements (like melody, rhythm, instruments, lyrics) relate to the time, place, and culture where that music comes from.

Question 2

What do students need to do for AS 91950?

Accepted Answer

1. Select one piece of music from a Māori context and one from another cultural or historical context (e.g., Pacific Islands, a specific historical period, or another culture) 2. Describe the musical elements that matter in each piece—such as melody, rhythm, instrumentation, vocal style, lyrics, or compositional techniques 3. Describe the relevant context for each piece—what culture, history, or social setting shaped it, and when and where it was performed 4. Link the musical elements directly to the context using specific examples like timestamps, lyrics, instrument names, or musical sections 5. Explain why those musical choices make sense given the context and what they help communicate

Question 3

What's the difference between Achieved, Merit, and Excellence for AS 91950?

Accepted Answer

Achieved: You clearly describe the musical elements and context for each piece, and make simple but valid links between them using some specific musical references. Merit: You explain how specific musical elements connect to context using clear supporting evidence (like lyric quotes, instrument details, or song sections), and show why those choices matter for each piece. Excellence: You provide insightful, well-developed discussions of multiple musical elements in each work, consistently use precise musical evidence to support your points, and explain both how and why musical choices were made in relation to context.

Question 4

What mistakes do students typically make in AS 91950?

Accepted Answer

1. Focusing on personal feelings or 'vibes' (like 'it has a relaxed feel') instead of actually naming and discussing the musical elements that create that feeling—examiners want to see you talk about specific rhythm, instrumentation, melody, or harmony choices 2. Choosing songs or pieces that don't have enough musical depth to analyse, or only discussing lyrics without addressing the actual music—pick works where the music itself says something meaningful about the context 3. Not providing enough specific evidence to back up your claims—avoid vague statements and instead use timestamps, quote lyrics, name instruments, identify sections, or describe what you actually hear

Music contexts · AS 91950

1,977 students sat this in 2024 · 54% passed

Documents (19)

The standard itself

Exam papers & schedules

Exemplars (student work samples)

Reports & guidance

Bundles

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