Music

Entry Requirements: minimum Grade 6 in GCSE Music. For A level the expected practical requirement is ABRSM Grade 5 or equivalent. Grade 5 Theory is also strongly recommended | Exam Board: Edexcel

Why Study Music?

Are you passionate about all kinds of music, as a performer, composer and music historian/analyst?
Do you aspire to the highest levels of instrumental/ vocal performance, both technically and expressively?
Do you love to compose and wish to explore and develop your own creative musical ideas?
Do you love to analyse and explore music in its social, historical and cultural context?

Studying academic music develops many transferable skills relevant to the worlds of both work and leisure and is therefore valued highly by employers and universities.

Musicians are:

Creative
Team players
Strong leaders
Versatile
Empathetic
Enthusiastic
Committed
Disciplined
Motivated
Good communicators
Critical and analytical thinkers

The Course

Performing 30%

Total performance time of 8 minutes
Performance can be solo and/or ensemble

Composition 30%

2 compositions: 1 free or free choice brief – minimum 4 minutes 1 brief assessing technique – minimum 1 minute
Together total minimum of 6 minutes

Appraising 40% (written/listening exam)

Analysing and evaluating music
6 Areas of Study with 3 set works in each:
- Instrumental Music
- Music for Film
- Popular Music and Jazz
- Fusions
- New Directions

Opportunities

A level musicians play an important leading role in the life of the Music Department and in the whole College community. There are many performance opportunities, both formal and informal, including College Café, and informal after school concerts. You can join Choirs (both classical and popular, formal and not), Orchestras, Music Theatre productions, Bands (Pop, Wind), as well as Chamber ensembles. Instrumental and Choral music is a vital part of College life and A level students are strongly encouraged to get involved!