Music A Level

A minimum of 4 subjects at grade 5 or above at GCSE plus English Language and Maths at grade 4 or above.

You should be able to play an instrument (including voice), to at least grade 5 standard and be at, or working towards, grade 5 standard in music theory. (If you have not followed the grading route, applications will still be considered.) Students are required to do an audition and attend a guidance discussion.

The course is aimed at those who have previously attained some knowledge in music or aspects relating to it, either through a GCSE qualification or an instrumental/vocal/music theory qualification. Students may have also acquired suitable experience through less formal means as a performer or as an attentive listener.

Year One

Performing (30%)

Students will perform two contrasting pieces in a 6-8 minute recital. Students can play or sing as soloists or as part of an esemble. Other options accompanying and using music technology to create a performance.

Composition (30%)

Students will demonstrate their ability to create and develop musical ideas with technical control and expressive understanding, making creative use of musical devices, conventions and resources by creating two compositions. One will be set to a brief set by the Awarding Body and one to a brief written by the student.

Listening & Appraising (40%)

A written exam including aural extracts, covering the following areas of study:

Area of Study 1: Instrumental Music of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven

Area of Study 2: Popular Song: Blues, Jazz, Swing and Big Band

Area of Study 3: Developments in Instrumental Jazz - 1910 to the Present Day

Area of Study 4: Religious Music of the Baroque Period

Area of Study 5: Programme Music 1820 - 1910

Area of Study 6: Innovations in Music - 1900 to the Present Day

Year Two

The second year follows a similar pattern to the first year, including performing, composing and a written/listening exam based on general listening skills and the six areas of study.

You will typically be in College four days per week, with lesson style varying according to subject. In-College delivery is supported by online resources, and students develop strong independent learning skills to equip them for their next steps. In addition, you will be expected to do performances throughout the course.

The Performing and Composing elements are assessed by means of a filmed recital performance and composition scores submitted to OCR, the Awarding Body. The Listening & Appraising component of the course culminates in an exam that includes the following elements:

• Analysing and Evaluating Music
• Familiar and Unfamiliar Pieces
• Prescribed Works that students will have studied in detail
• Questions based on Aural Extracts

Good course combinations for Music are Music Technology, Media Studies, Film Studies, Drama and Theatre Studies and Maths.

The course provides a sound foundation for music courses in higher education with students progressing on to study at university and some of the country’s top conservatoires. Employment possibilities include the music industry, teaching and other related careers.