In an increasingly competitive higher education market and workplace, universities and employers are not only looking for impressive grades, but also subjects which demonstrate a student's versatility and a greater breadth of skill and interest. As a very varied discipline, Music A-Level is therefore recognised both as a rigorous academic subject and as excellent preparation for many courses at Higher Education and highly regarded in Russell Group Universities. Music A-Level fits well with all other Arts and Science subjects and it teaches many transferable skills: confidence in performance and at interview, self discipline in individual practice, teamwork in ensemble-playing, music technology, essay writing, analysis and many more.

Course Content and Methodology

The Edexcel course allows students to study Music as a practical, intellectual and creative subject, covering a wide range of styles of music, including classical, jazz and pop. The course encourages musicians from all backgrounds to develop as performers and composers. The course is split into three components; performing, composing and appraising.

Six areas of study:

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

Assessment

Performing:

• Performance, externally assessed 30% of the qualification
• A public performance of one or more pieces, performed as a recital.
• Performance can be playing or singing solo, in an ensemble, improvising, or realising music using music technology.
• The total performance time across all pieces must be a minimum of 8 minutes, with a minimum of Grade 6 standard.
• Performances are recorded in school, during a concert with friends and family.

Composing

Coursework; externally assessed, 30% of the qualification

Two pieces of coursework:

• One composition, at least 4 minutes in duration. Completed in last year of study, genre of your own choice or to a brief.
• One composition from a list of briefs assessing compositional technique, students choose an area of interest ranging from Bach harmony, dance remix and music arranging.

Appraising

Written examination: 90 minutes 40% of the qualification.

Course Requirements

This two-year course is open to all students. The best foundation for success in A-Level Music is a good grade at GCSE but this is not crucial. The ability to play one or more instruments to at least grade 5 and an interest in performing, creating and understanding music are also important. In order to ensure a strong result at A-Level Music, students will benefit from membership of a range of school co-curricular music activities.

Facilities