A Level Music is a balance of performance, composition and appraisal. It is for any student who has a passion for creating and exploring music at a deeper level. Students study a variety of music, developing critical and creative thinking, cultural, aesthetic and emotional awareness. A Level Music is an academic subject which counts towards any university course.
2 years full-time
Edexcel
The key content of musical elements are taught practically through the Areas of Study and set works to show real examples of how these are used within different types of music. Throughout the course students will have the opportunity to take part in music concerts and school shows.
Performing – 30% You will perform a wide range of pieces throughout the course in a style of your choice. You will be required to perform a solo performance of between 8 and 10 minutes in the second year of study. There will be several opportunities to gain performing experience in concerts and shows to develop your skills and experience.
Composing – 30% You will compose two pieces of music. Composition 1 can respond to a brief or the student can write their own brief. Composition 2 is chosen from four technical briefs set by the exam board.
Listening and Appraising – 40% This unit consists of a written paper with musical examples, taken under examination conditions. The student is given a set of audio that tests aural skills and includes essay questions on the set music studied over the two years.
The course content allows students to develop their knowledge and skills of music, enabling them to progress into undergraduate music or music related degree courses. These courses could include focussing on performing music, composing music or producing music. Many mixed performing arts courses as wellas music in the media are very popular after studying A Level music.
