2024 JAMB Syllabus For Music & Free Key Points

The JAMB Syllabus for music is a comprehensive guide that outlines the topics and skills you need to know to ace the exam. In this article, we will explore the JAMB syllabus for music and its key features, importance, and benefits. We will also provide some free key points to help you study effectively and efficiently.

What is the JAMB Syllabus for Music?

The JAMB syllabus for music is a document that specifies the scope and objectives of the music examination. It covers various aspects of music education, such as music theory, history, practical skills, composition, and more. The syllabus is designed to test your achievement of the following course objectives:

Appreciate and discuss music fairly and critically
Identify, through written/aural analysis, the features of the music of different periods of Western and African music theory history, peoples, its forms and the media
Appreciate the influence of socio-cultural and technological factors on the lives and music of musicians
Attain a sound musical basis for further learning at the tertiary level

The syllabus is divided into sections, each with a list of topics and subtopics. The sections are:

Section A: Music Theory
Section B: Music History
Section C: Practical Skills
Section D: Composition
Section E: General Knowledge

Each section has a specific number of questions and marks allocated to it. The total number of questions is 50, and the total marks are 100. The duration of the exam is 2 hours.

Why is the JAMB Syllabus for Music Important?

The JAMB Syllabus for Music is important because it helps you to prepare for the JAMB examination in music, which is a requirement for admission into many tertiary institutions in Nigeria that offer music courses.

The syllabus covers the essential topics and skills that you need to master in music theory, history, practical skills, composition, and general knowledge. By following the syllabus, you can:

Focus on the relevant and essential topics for the exam and avoid wasting time on unnecessary or outdated information.
Understand the expectations and standards of the exam and know what type of questions to expect, how to answer them, and how they are scored.
Plan and organize your study schedule and set realistic goals and track your progress.
Improve your confidence and performance and prepare yourself for the exam by exposing yourself to the format and content of the exam.
Improve your knowledge, creativity, and appreciation of music and lay a solid foundation for further learning and career development in music.

The JAMB Syllabus for Music is a valuable resource that can help you achieve your academic and musical aspirations. By using the syllabus and the recommended textbooks and materials, you can improve your chances of success in the JAMB examination

How to Use the JAMB Syllabus for Music?

To use the JAMB syllabus for music effectively, you need to follow some steps. These are:

Download the syllabus from the JAMB website or other reliable sources. You can also get a hard copy from any JAMB office or accredited center.
Read the syllabus carefully and understand its structure, objectives, and requirements. Note down the sections, topics, subtopics, and marks distribution.
Compare the syllabus with the JAMB brochure and your school curriculum. Identify any gaps or overlaps and adjust your study plan accordingly.
Get the recommended textbooks and materials for each section and topic. You can also use other sources, such as online resources, past questions, and notes from your teachers or tutors.
Study each topic and subtopic thoroughly and practice the questions and exercises. Use the JAMB syllabus as a checklist to ensure that you cover everything.
Review and revise your notes and answers regularly. Use the JAMB syllabus to monitor your progress and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
Take mock exams and simulate the exam conditions. Use the JAMB syllabus to evaluate your performance and improve your areas of improvement.

How Music JAMB Syllabus is Structured

The JAMB Music Syllabus is well-organized, covering various aspects of music education. It includes sections on music theory, history, practical skills, composition, and more.

The structure enables candidates to explore different musical disciplines for a comprehensive education.

Key Features of the Music Syllabus

1. Comprehensive Coverage: The JAMB Syllabus for Music exposes candidates to a wide range of musical concepts and genres, including Western music theory, African music traditions, practical instrument skills, and music history.

2. Integration of Practical Skills: Unlike some traditional academic syllabi, the JAMB Music Syllabus strongly emphasizes practical skills. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in playing musical instruments, singing, and applying theoretical knowledge in a practical setting.

3. Adaptability to Diverse Musical Backgrounds: The syllabus is designed to accommodate various musical backgrounds, recognizing the diversity in musical traditions. It aims to create a level playing field for candidates with different musical experiences.

4. Relevance to Contemporary Music Trends: The JAMB Music Syllabus evolves to reflect changes in the music landscape, incorporating elements of contemporary music styles and trends. This ensures candidates are well-prepared for the dynamic nature of the music industry.

Importance of Adhering to the Syllabus

1. Examination Preparedness: Following the syllabus ensures that candidates are adequately prepared for the JAMB examination. It serves as a roadmap for focused and targeted study, maximizing the chances of success in the evaluation.

2. Holistic Musical Education: The syllabus, with its comprehensive coverage, facilitates a well-rounded musical education. Candidates gain exposure to various aspects of music, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art form.

3. Standardization: The syllabus contributes to standardizing the evaluation process. It sets a benchmark for the knowledge and skills expected of candidates, promoting fairness and equity in the assessment.

4. Career Readiness: Beyond the examination, adherence to the syllabus prepares candidates for future careers in music. The practical skills acquired during preparation are valuable assets in the professional musical landscape.

In essence, the JAMB Syllabus for Music is a roadmap to success, providing candidates with a clear direction for their musical journey and ensuring a robust foundation for their future endeavors in the field of music.

Key Topics in the JAMB Syllabus for Music

2024 JAMB Syllabus For Music & Free Key Points

SECTION A: RUDIMENTS OF MUSIC

1. The Staff: Understanding the grand staff (treble and bass clefs), ledger lines for higher/lower pitches, open score interpretation (multiple vocal parts), and C clef, alto, and tenor clef positions.

2. Music Notes/Rests and their Corresponding Values: Recognizing durations and silences denoted by notes and rests in musical notation.

3. Time/Time Signature: Grasping simple and compound time signatures, organizing notes correctly for clarity in notation.

4. Key Signatures and Scales: Understanding technical names of scale degrees, mastering major/minor scales, identifying a piece’s key without explicit key signatures.

5. Keyboard Setting and Enharmonic Equivalents: Understanding keyboard layout, note relationships, and accidentals (sharps, flats, naturals).

6. Intervals: Recognizing diatonic/chromatic intervals and their inversions, identifying specific intervals (unison, 4th, 5th, 8ve, 2nd, 3rd, 6th, 7th), distinguishing unique intervals (diminished 5th, augmented 4th), understanding consonant and dissonant intervals.

7. Definition of Simple Musical Terms, Signs, and Abbreviations.

8. Transcription and Transposition: Transcribing between staff and tonic solfa notation, transposing using treble (G) and bass (F) staves within specific key limitations.

SECTION B: ELEMENTARY HARMONY

This section covers various aspects of music theory, focusing on triads, chord progressions, types of motion, cadences, non-harmonic tones, modulation, and elementary composition.

It begins with an explanation of primary and secondary triads in major keys, providing chord indications for major, minor, diminished, and augmented triads. The article then delves into chord progressions, emphasizing dominant 7th chords in root position, and explores different kinds of motion in musical lines.

It further discusses cadences in major keys, including perfect, imperfect, plagal, and interrupted cadences. The concept of non-harmonic tones, such as neighbouring and passing tones, is covered.

This section concludes with discussions on modulation, involving simple diatonic modulations, and elementary composition, which includes setting words to written melody and recognizing suitable answers to given musical phrases.

SECTION C: HISTORY AND LITERATURE OF AFRICAN MUSIC

This section discusses Nigerian folk songs, categorizing them into types, forms, and characteristics. It explores various types like Cradle Songs, War Songs, and Praise Songs.

It also explains different song structures and vocal styles, highlighting traits such as call and response, strophic, and through-composed forms, along with diverse vocal techniques and scales/modes used.

It covers the broader knowledge of Nigerian traditional music, including festivals, dances, and ceremonies. The piece also details classifications of Nigerian traditional musical instruments, categorizing them into aerophones, chordophones, idiophones, and membranophones.

It further discusses notable African traditional musicians from Nigeria and other African countries, and the evolution and development of African popular music, listing various genres like Highlife, Afro-beat, Fuji, and Reggae.

It discusses the lives and music of African popular musicians, categorizing them by nationality.

A. NIGERIANS:

Notable Nigerian musicians include Bongos Ikwe, Oliver De Coque, Nelly Uchendu, Osita Osadebe, Bright Chimezie, Bobby Benson, Victor Uwaifo, Sonny Okosun, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, I. K. Dairo, Victor Olaiya, Ebenezer Obey

Sunny Ade, Fatai Rolling Dollar, Bala Miller, Alhaji Uba Rawa, Zaaki Adzee, 2Face, PSquare, Djinee, Paul Play Dairo, Eedris Abdulkareem, D’Banj, Sunny Neji, Lagbaja, Zule Zoo, Daddy Showkey, Majek Fashek, Ras Kimono, Jeremiah Gyang

Flavour, Olamide, M.I, Iyanya, Wizkid, Davido, Omawunmi, Lara George, Sola Allyson, Ara, Asa, Onyeka Onwenu, Christy Essien-Igbokwe, Nasir Hausawa, among others.

B. OTHER AFRICANS

Beyond Nigeria, African artists such as Manu Dibango, E. T. Mensah, Jerry Hansen, Kofi Olomide, Awilo Logomba, Papa Wemba, Salif Kaita, Angelina Kidgo, Lucky Dube

Yvonne Chaka Chaka, Brenda Fasie, Sarkodie, and more have made significant contributions to the music scene.

It also discusses the lives and music of African art musicians, dividing them into Nigerian and other African categories.

A. NIGERIANS

Renowned Nigerian art musicians include W. W. C. Echezona, Laz Ekwueme, Sam Akpabot, Ikoli Harcourt Whyte, Joshua Uzoigwe, Mosun Omibiyi-Obidike, Tunji Vidal, Ademola Adegbite, Yemi Olaniyan, Ayo Bankole

Akin Euba, Sam Ojukwu, A. K. Achinivu, Bode Omojola, Felix Nwuba, Christopher Oyesiku, Dayo Dedeke, Adams Fiberesima, Dan Agu, Chris Onyeji, Godwin Sadoh, Meki Nzewi, among others.

B. OTHER AFRICANS

Notable art musicians from other African countries include Joseph S. Maison, N. Z. Nayo, J. H. Kwabena Nketia, Gymah Labi, Philip Gbeho, Ephraim Amu, C.K. Adom, A.A. Mensah, C.W.K. Mereku, etc.

SECTION D: HISTORY AND LITERATURE OF WESTERN MUSIC

This section covers various aspects of Western music history, starting from the Medieval period to the Romantic era, highlighting key composers like J.S. Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, and Chopin. It delves into different music forms, instruments, vocal types, and even explores computer music technology.

In the Comparative Music Studies segment, it discusses prominent black musicians from the diaspora, spanning genres like jazz, soul, reggae, and hip-hop. It emphasizes the diversity and cultural richness embedded in these musical forms and their influence on global music.

The segment on the spirit of nationalism in Nigerian music examines how music reflects and shapes a nation’s identity, showcasing the significance of cultural pride and socio-political awareness in Nigerian musical expressions. This comparative approach showcases the varied influences and contributions of Black musicians across different musical genres and regions, underscoring their impact on global music culture.

SECTION E: COMPARATIVE MUSIC STUDIES

This section discusses Comparative Music Studies, examining the diverse contributions of Black musicians in the diaspora. The list includes iconic figures such as Mighty Sparrow, James Brown, Bob Marley, Michael Jackson, and others from different genres.

The exploration extends to various music forms, encompassing Negro Spiritual, Gospel Music, Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Soul, Calypso, Rock ‘n’ Roll, Reggae, Afro-beat, Tango, Rap, Cha-cha-cha, Bolero, Twist, and Hip-hop.

A focus on the spirit of nationalism in Nigerian music is highlighted, involving an analysis of how national identity, cultural pride, and socio-political consciousness influence the music created in Nigeria.

In essence, comparative music studies offer a valuable lens to appreciate the rich tapestry of musical expressions within the Black diaspora, showcasing the cultural influences, historical contexts, and artistic innovations that have significantly shaped the global musical landscape.

How to Study the Key Topics in the JAMB Syllabus for Music

To study the key topics in the JAMB Syllabus for Music effectively, you need to follow some steps. These are:

Review the syllabus and understand its structure, objectives, and requirements. Note down the sections, topics, subtopics, and marks distribution.
Get the recommended textbooks and materials for each section and topic. You can also use other sources, such as online resources, past questions, and notes from your teachers or tutors.
Study each topic and subtopic thoroughly and practice the questions and exercises. Use the JAMB Syllabus as a checklist to ensure that you cover everything.
Review and revise your notes and answers regularly. Use the JAMB Syllabus to monitor your progress and identify your strengths and weaknesses.
Take mock exams and simulate the exam conditions. Use the JAMB Syllabus to evaluate your performance and improve your areas of improvement.

By following these steps, you can study the key topics in the JAMB Syllabus for Music efficiently and effectively. You can also improve your knowledge, creativity, and appreciation of music. We hope this article has been helpful and informative for you.

Recommended Texts

1. Akpabot, S. E. (1986) Foundation of Nigerian Traditional Music, Ibadan: Spectrum

This book Provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding Nigerian traditional music, offering insights into its historical and cultural aspects.

2. Associated Board of the Royal School of Music (1958) Rudiments and Theory of Music, London

A fundamental resource covering the rudiments and theory of music, essential for a solid grasp of music fundamentals.

3. Cole, W. (1969) The Form of Music, London: The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music

Explores the forms of music, aiding in the understanding of the structural elements that shape musical compositions.

4. Echezona, W. W. C. (1981) Nigerian Musical Instruments, Enugu: Apollo Publishing Ltd

Focuses on Nigerian musical instruments, providing valuable insights into their types, classifications, and cultural significance.

5. Ekwueme, L. (1993) Choir Training and Choral Conducting for Africans, Lagos: Lenaus Advertising and Publishing Company

Offers guidance on choir training and choral conducting, catering specifically to African musical contexts.

6. Holst, I. (1963) An ABC of Music, Oxford: Oxford University Press

Presents an alphabetical guide to fundamental musical concepts, making it a handy reference for beginners.

7. Hosier, (1961) Instruments of the Orchestra Oxford: Oxford University Press

Explores the various instruments of the orchestra, aiding in the understanding of orchestral arrangements.

8. Hunt, R. (1960) Elements of Music

Covers essential elements of music, providing a solid foundation for music theory studies.

9. Inanga, A. (1993) Music for Secondary Schools Vols. I and II, Ibadan: Spectrum

Tailored for secondary school students, covering a range of music topics with practical applications.

10. Kamien, R. (1990) Music: An Appreciation, London: McGraw–Hill Publishing Company
Offers an appreciation of music, combining historical context with a focus on musical styles and genres.

11. Kennedy, M. (1985) The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Music, (Third Edition), London: Oxford University Press
A comprehensive dictionary providing concise definitions and explanations of musical terms.

12. Kitson, C. H. (1978) Elementary Harmony Book 2, London: Oxford University Press
Focuses on the principles of harmony, catering to students at the elementary level.

13. Kofoworola, Z. O. And Lateef, Y. (1987) Hausa Performing Arts and Music, Lagos: Nigeria Magazine
Explores the rich cultural heritage of Hausa performing arts and music.

14. Lovelock, W. (1953) A Concise History of Music, London: Bell and Hyman
Provides a concise history of music, covering major developments and movements.

15. Lovelock, W. (1996) The Rudiments of Music, London: G. Bell and Sons Limited
Covers the rudiments of music, offering a solid foundation for beginners.

16. Machlis, J. (1977) The Enjoyment of Music, New York: W. W. Norton
Focuses on the enjoyment of music, providing insights into different musical styles and forms.

17. Mensah, A. A. (Undated) Folksongs for Schools, Accra
A collection of folksongs tailored for educational settings.

18. Morris, R. O. (1974) The Oxford Harmony, Vol. I, London: Oxford University Press
A valuable resource for harmony studies, offering a comprehensive guide.

19. Nketia, J. H. (1974) African Music, New York: W. W. Norton Company
Explores the diverse landscape of African music, offering cultural and historical insights.

20. Palmer, K. (1965) Teach Yourself Music, London: The English University Press Limited
A self-teaching guide for music enthusiasts covering various aspects of music theory.

21. Reed, H. O. (1954) Basic Music: A Basic Theory Text, New York: N. Y. Mills Music Inc.
A foundational text covering basic music theory, suitable for beginners.

22. Taylor, E. (1989) The Guide to Music Theory, London: The Associated Board of The Royal Schools of Music
A guide to music theory, aligning with the standards of The Royal Schools of Music.

23. Warburton, A. O. (1955) Graded Music Course for Schools, Books I – III, London: Longman
A graded music course designed for schools, covering a progressive range of topics.

Conclusion

The key topics outlined in the JAMB Syllabus for Music are not merely an academic exercise but a journey into the heart and soul of musical understanding.

The importance of grasping the rudiments of music, exploring elementary harmony, understanding the history and literature of African and Western music, and studying the lives of renowned musicians cannot be overstated.

These topics form the bedrock upon which a comprehensive understanding of music is built.

As we have explored, the syllabus covers a wide array of subjects, from the foundational elements like staff notation, time signatures, and key signatures to the intricate realms of harmony, composition, and the rich history of African and Western musical traditions.

Each section contributes to the holistic development of a musician, fostering not only technical proficiency but also a deep appreciation for the cultural and historical contexts that shape musical expression.

Furthermore, the recommended texts serve as invaluable companions on this musical journey, offering diverse perspectives, historical insights, and practical guidance.

Whether one is a student preparing for the JAMB examination or a music enthusiast eager to expand their knowledge, these texts provide a roadmap for exploration.

Mastering the key topics in the JAMB Syllabus for Music goes beyond fulfilling academic requirements; it opens doors to a world where notes and rhythms become a language, and compositions are narratives that echo through time.

The benefits extend beyond examination success, encompassing academic achievement, a profound understanding of music, and the honing of critical thinking and analytical skills.

As we celebrate the diversity of musical genres, the richness of African musical heritage, and the evolution of popular music, it becomes evident that the study of music is a dynamic and ever-evolving process.

Through effective study techniques, recommended resources, and mindful time management, students can navigate this vast and fascinating landscape, unlocking the potential for academic success and personal enrichment.

In essence, the key topics in the JAMB Syllabus for Music beckon learners to embark on a melodic journey, where each note is a stepping stone toward a harmonious and knowledgeable future in the world of music.