Music (A Level)

The course is for anyone who plays an instrument and is up to a grade 6 standard. It is ideal for people who are wanting to go into music and other creative industries. The course lends itself to students who are inquisitive about music and enjoy listening to a wide range of different musical genres. A student who can use their understanding in a practical way as well as a written way will really enjoy studying Music A Level.

What you will learn

You will have opportunities to develop your performing, composing and listening skills in a class of like-minded musicians. The course is designed to accommodate both classical and pop musicians and covers a wide range of genres.

How you will learn

You will learn through listening, analysing scores, performing on different instruments and using Music software to compose.

Year 1

Recital 6 minutes

2 composition which are 4 ½ minutes combined

Knowledge and understanding of musical elements, contexts and language.

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

Year 2

Recital 8 minutes

2 compositions which are 6 minutes combined. To include 1 free composition (5 minutes long) and 1 Bach Chorale

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

Development of application of knowledge to unfamiliar works

Development of aural perception

Assessment 1. Extended Performance, recital, perform for over 8 minutes, 30% of final grade.

Final Recital: a minimum of 8 minutes in length

Assessment 2. Composition and Technical Study, non-examined assessment, 30% of final grade.

Students compose 2 pieces, combined time minimum of 6-8 Minutes.

The first composition is either a free composition or is from a list of free choice briefs and must be at least four minutes in duration. The second composition must be from a list of briefs assessing technique, of at least two minutes in duration.

The four briefs assessing technique will always include: Bach chorale, two-part counterpoint, an arrangement and a remix that must be at least one minute in duration.

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

Assessment 3. Further Musical Understanding, written examination, 2 hours, 40% of final grade.

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

Application of knowledge to unfamiliar works.

The areas of study are: Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusion, New Directions

College basic entry requirements

• Grade 6 or above in GCSE Music
• Grade 5 or above in Music Theory

Where Next?

A Level Music is a highly respected course which can lead to further study in Music or Performing Arts at university. It is also considered useful if you are hoping to study Music Technology at university. The confidence and presentation skills which you will gain from the performance aspect of this course will appeal to potential employers as well as university admissions tutors.

Course Combinations

The course combines well with several A Level and BTEC subjects including; Media, Physics, English Literature, Drama and Art