Director of Music: Miss D Brown
We hear music every day of our lives and the inner instinct to respond to music is almost universal. The opportunity to study music in greater detail opens an appreciation that catapults a level of accessibility and understanding on to a different plane. Music allows the expression of personality and emotions through the performance of music and the composition of music.
Course content
Examination board: Edexcel
Performance: 30% – 60 marks
Students must perform one or more pieces in a public performance for a minimum of 8 minutes. Performance can be solo, ensemble, improvising or realising music through music technology; or indeed a combination. The recital can include multiple pieces of music.
Composition: 30% – 60 marks
Students must compose one piece of music either to be composed in response to a set brief from the exam board, or a ‘free’ composition. This composition is worth 40 marks.
The second composition must be in response a list of briefs exploring compositional techniques, this composition must be at least one minute in length unless otherwise specified. This composition is worth 20 marks.
Total time across both compositions must be 6 minutes minimum.
Appraising: 40% 100 marks
Students must sit a 2 hour exam exploring their in depth knowledge of musical elements, contexts and language. Application of knowledge through six areas of study, each with three set works:
Vocal Music
Instrumental Music
Music for Film
Popular Music and Jazz
Fusions
New Directions
Each students has a personal copy of the exam listening material in order to complete the examination.
The examination includes, set works, short rhythmic and melodic dictation, comparison of a set work to an unfamiliar piece of music and a second essay question relating to the evaluation of one of the set works.
Co-curricular
The music department organises a wide variety of trips throughout the year inclusive of performance opportunities both nationally and internationally. There are a number of ensembles for students to immerse themselves in, orchestra, chamber choir, jazz band, soul band, string ensemble, guitar club and many more. There is an impressive annual performance calendar and a musical production every other year.
University and beyond
Music A Level broadens creative and expressive minds in a way that no other qualification can. It brings listening, performance and composition to life, engaging analytical investigation, personal expression and creative discovery. The music industry is one of the fastest growing sectors in the world and encompasses a vast range of activities in the UK. Colleges, universities and conservatoires serve a wide pool of students who learn skills in performance, composition, technology, recording, production, music management and administration, the academic study of music, analysis and music therapy to name a few. Music A Level is a well respected qualification in all professional sectors and evidences breadth of experience, skills and knowledge when coupled with subjects outside of the creative and expressive arts.