Music

Applications Open: 5th December 2025

Applications Close: 31st January 2026

Entry Requirements: 5 GCSE grades of 4 or above of which must include English & Maths. Then individual subject criteria

Science and Maths - require level 7 in subject to study (plus 6 in maths for science subjects)

Most other courses require level 6 to study

If you have a passion for Music, then why not study it at A level?

Studying Music can give you a great mix of social, technical and business skills. Music students often have the edge over others on teamwork, good communication and self-management. Music can be thought of as part Art and part Science, which means it will help you build your problem solving, research, planning, analytical and critical thinking skills, as well as develop your creativity, not to mention discipline, composure under pressure, time management and independent working ability.

The linear course develops and assesses skills of performing, composing, listening and score analysis.

You will give a performance to a visiting examiner, playing for 10-12 minutes.

You will compose two or three compositions: one (or two) to a brief set by the exam board and one free composition.

You can choose to weight performance or composition more highly to suit your own skill set.

The Appraising unit involves listening and analysing the development of the Symphony from 1750-1900, key classical works of the Twentieth Century and Musical Theatre Songs. The examination paper requires you to write short prose and longer essays on the music you have studied, in addition to completing aural analysis.

Students will need to have a grade 7 or above in Music at GCSE.

You should be of Grade 5 standard or higher on an instrument or voice and be a confident performer. You also need to be musically literate; it is essential that students are fluent in treble and bass clef notation and have a good knowledge of music theory. You may be asked to audition for a place on the course.

A level Music can lead to further study at university or a conservatoire, to careers in performance and areas connected with live and recorded performance, Arts Administration, Teaching, Journalism and Music Therapy. The discipline and commitment that musicians show are traits highly valued by employers, even if your career is not based in Music.