Subject specific entry requirements: GCSE grade 6 in Music, an understanding of music theory to ABRSM grade 5 standard and an ability to perform at a minimum of an instrumental grade 5 standard.
Course content:
- Performing Music – Performance of an 8-minute programme of solo music on your chosen instrument or voice.
- Composing Music – Composing two pieces of music that total a minimum of 6 minutes; a free-choice composition and a composition set to a brief assigned by the exam board.
- Listening and Appraising – Developing listening and appraising skills through the study of a variety of different styles and genres. Exploring the place of music in different cultures and contexts. The skills of musical analysis and evaluation in aural and written form are core to this component.
Assessment:
Component 1: Performing (externally assessed coursework; 30% of final grade)
Component 2: Composing (externally assessed coursework; 30% of final grade)
Component 3: Appraising (2 hour written examination; 40% of final grade)
Progression into careers via:
The A Level Music course is an excellent way to prepare for musical courses at universities. Music is a desirable subject for university applicants for most courses, due to the combination of academic and creative qualities necessary for successful completion of the course.
In 2011, the Confederate of British Industry outlined the seven skills that define employability: self-management, teamwork, business and customer awareness, problem solving, communication, numeracy, and IT skills. The 2013 alumni survey from the University of Nottingham concluded that music graduates were among the most employable due to the development of these skills during their studies.
Length of Course: A Level: 2 years
Examination Board: Edexcel