Board: EDEXCEL
Syllabus: AS Level (8MU01), A Level (9MU01)
About the subject
The music course is ideally suited to musicians with an interest in both popular and classical music. It caters for students with a range of musical backgrounds and provides opportunities to develop skills in performance, composition and musical analysis.
Students should be keen performers. Instrumentalists /singers from any style of music are accepted for assessment.
Learning styles
Practical workshops
Lectures
Research based projects
Seminars, masterclasses and presentations
Subject Combinations and Progression
Music can be combined effectively with any Arts or Science based programme of study.
Students who consider studying Music beyond ‘A’ Level might apply to conservatoires as well as to universities.
Subject Modules and Assessment
AS (8MU01)
Unit 1: Performing Music (recorded performance coursework)
Perform one or more solo/or ensemble pieces lasting 5-6 minutes in total.
Unit 2: Composing (timed coursework project)
Produce one original 3-minute composition. Produce explanatory CD sleeve notes for the piece, describing your influences and the structure of the work. The exam board provides composing briefs in September of the course.
Unit 3: Developing Musical Understanding
Study a series of set works from the Renaissance to the present day. A 2 hour examination based on Listening, Investigating musical styles and simple 4-part harmony questions form the basis of the assessment.
A2 (9MU01)
Unit 4: Extended musical performance:
A 12-15 minute performance as soloist or part of an ensemble
Unit 5: Composition and/or Technical Study
Compose an original 3-minute piece in response to a brief. Complete one technical study from a choice of three.
Unit 6: Further Musical Understanding
A 2 hour exam in 3 sections: Aural – Music in Context – Continuity and change in Instrumental music. Two sections are based on set works studied during the year.
Entry requirements
C in English Language and Grade 5 ABRSM (or equivalent) on one instrument