Music
Course summary
A Level Music builds on the three essential components which are studied throughout the Secondary curriculum: Performing, Composing and Listening and Appraising. The course is designed to build on what students have learnt at GCSE and it is an excellent opportunity for students to put their musical skills to use in an academic and practical way. Throughout the course, students study music from different eras including the vocal music of Bach and Mozart, instrumental music from Berlioz and Vivaldi, music for Film, popular music, including jazz, and music of the avant-garde 20th century. Students also study compositional techniques in set styles and will be expected to perform a range of repertoire in front of a live audience. Unit 1: Performing 30% Students perform one or more pieces in a concert lasting a minimum of 8 minutes. Unit 2: Composing 30%This is organized in two parts:A composition either to a brief or a free composition (40 marks) A technical study based on an arrangement of a melody or a chorale in the style of J S Bach (20 marks)Both parts must last in total at least 6 minutes. Unit 3: Appraising 40%
Entry Requirements
Checked against your grades — every rule traces to the school's published source.
| Requirement | Rule | You |
|---|---|---|
Music | Grade 6 in Music (if taken) | — |
English Language | Grade 5 in English Language | — |
English Literature Alternative route | Grade 5 in English Literature | — |
Mathematics | Grade 5 in Mathematics | — |
As published by the school
Candidates must have both Maths and English Language or English Literature GCSE at Grade 5 or above, and also fulfil the entry criteria for their chosen subject courses: GCSE Grade 6 or above in Music (if taken). Playing an instrument/singing to Grade 5 standard is essential. Students who believe they are at this standard but have not yet passed the exam must enquire instead. Students need to be able to read stave notation (treble and/or bass/clef) fluently. An interest in, and an open minded approach to, all styles of music, as well as an ability to compose and write about music (to GCSE standard) is useful.
Am I eligible?
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Assessment
Performance (30%) completed during the course and externally examined. Composition (30%) completed during the course and externally examined. Appraising exam (40%) externally examined
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