Music A Level

Level 3 Pathway - In order to enrol onto our Level 3 courses, students must have achieved a minimum of 5 grade 4s at GCSE Level across 4 different subject areas; this should ideally include a Grade 4 for English Language and Mathematics.

It is important that students also pay attention to any individual subject entry requirements.

It may be that a small number of students are recommended to sit AS qualifications at the end of Year 12 in order to inform decisions about progression into Year 13, however these AS examinations are standalone and do not contribute to the overall A Level qualification.

Why?

The course provides a holistic understanding of Music in which students investigate, analyse, perform, compose and evaluate music and its features from a variety of styles and genres. This will provide a strong foundation for studying Music at Higher Education level. This can lead to a career in composing, performing, teaching or working in the music industry for TV, radio or film companies. Music is a highly regarded subject due to the range of skills required and the self-discipline of learning an instrument.

Course Structure

The A level is divided up into three key components of Performing, Composing and Appraising .

Performing - A public performance of one or more pieces will be completed at the end of the course lasting a minimum of 8 minutes. This forms 30% of the final grade and is externally assessed.

Composing - Students complete two compositions, one which is a 4 minute free choice composition and the other is a composition technique exercise. Both compositions together should last a minimum of 6 minutes. This forms 30%of the final grade and is externally assessed.

Appraising - Students will study a variety of set works based on the following areas of study:

• Vocal Music
• Instrumental Music
• Music for Film
• Popular Music and Jazz
• Fusions
• New Directions

There are three set works for each area of study and students will also complete wider listening tasks on related works. Analysis, knowledge and understanding will then be tested in a 2 hour examination. There will be an aural element to the examination along with an extended response question exploring the key features of the set works. This forms 40% of the final grade.

Extended Learning

A variety of extended learning tasks will be set weekly to cover the various elements of the course. Students are expected to develop a regular practice routine to develop their performance skills. Students who do not have a grade 5 theory qualification will be expected to attend the theory classes run weekly to develop knowledge and understanding.

Grade 4 GCSE Music or equivalent BTEC qualification alongside a minimum performance standard of grade 5 and a good theoretical understanding.