Music

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This course is ideally suited to musicians with an interest in both popular and classical music. It caters for students with a range of musical backgrounds and provides opportunities to develop skills in performance, composition and musical analysis. Each unit can be tailored to suit the needs of the individual. The College will provide free instrumental tuition towards the compulsory performance element of the course for five terms. Students are expected to join in the extra-curricular music provision at the College as this is an integral part of the course.

Course Content

Unit 1: Extended Performance (30%/60 marks) - Non examined assessment: externally assessed

A public performance of one or more pieces performed as a recital. The performance can be playing or singing solo, in an ensemble, improvising, or realising music using music technology.

The total performance time across all pieces must be a minimum of 8 minutes.

Unit 2: Composing and Technical Study (30%/60 marks) - Non examined assessment: externally assessed

Total of two compositions, one to a brief set by Pearson and one either free composition or also to a brief. One composition must be from either a list of briefs related to the areas of study, or a free composition, carrying 40 marks for this unit. This composition must be at least 4 minutes.

One composition must be from a list of briefs assessing compositional technique, carrying 20 marks for this component. This composition must be at least 1 minute in duration, unless the brief specifies a longer minimum duration.

Total time across both submissions must be a minimum of 6 minutes.

Unit 3: Further Musical Understanding (40%/100 marks) - Written examination: 2 hours

Knowledge and understanding of musical elements, contexts and language.

Application of knowledge through the context of six areas of study, each with three set works.

Vocal Music: J.S. Bach, Cantana, Ein feste Burg; Mozart, The Magic Flute; Vaughan Williams, On Wenlock Edge.

Instrumental Music: Vivaldi, Concerto in D Minor, Op. 3 No. 11; Clara Wieck-Schumann, Piano Trio in G Minor, Op. 17: movement 1; Berlioz, Symphonie Fantastique.

Music for Film: Danny Elfman, Batman Returns; Rachel Portman, The Duchess; Bernard Herrmann, Psycho.

Popular Music & Jazz: Courtney Pine, Back in the Day; Kate Bush, Hounds of Love; Beatles, Revolver.

Fusions: Debussy, Estampes; Familia Valera Miranda, Cana Quema; Anoushka Shankar, Breathing Under Water.

New Directions: Cage, Three Dances for Two Prepared Pianos; Kaija Saariaho, Petals for Violoncello and Live Electronics; Stravinsky, The Rite of Spring.

A mix of performance, listening and written examinations

Grade 6 in Music, or above or good practical ability with Grade 5 theory. The ability to read music is also required.

Music A Level can be a stepping stone to becoming a professional musician or to associated careers such as recording, broadcasting, theatre, film, journalism and arts administration. It also provides the opportunity to pursue an interest in music to a higher level.