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Music A Level

Board: EDEXCEL
Syllabus: A Level (9MU0)

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

1st Year

Component 1: Performing

Perform one or more contrasting solo or ensemble pieces lasting at least 6 minutes.

Component 2: Composing

Produce two compositions totalling 4 min 30 secs – one from a Pearson brief, a second from either a learner brief or a different Pearson brief. Produce a score, lead sheet OR written description. The exam board provides a brief in September of the course.

Component 3: Appraising

Study a series of prescribed works from six Areas of Study – each with two set works. A 90 minute written transfer exam based on these works involving a combination of listening, notating, short answer and essay questions.

2nd Year

Component 1: Performing (9MU01)

Perform one or more pieces solo or ensemble pieces lasting at least 8 minutes. 30% of A Level

Component 2: Composing (9MU02)

Produce two compositions totalling 6 mins – one from a Pearson brief, a second from either a learner brief or a different Pearson brief. Produce a score, lead sheet OR written description. The exam board provides a brief in September of the course. 30% of A Level

Component 3: Appraising Exam (9MU03)

Study a series of prescribed works from six Areas of Study – each with three set works. A two hour written exam based on the prescribed works involving a combination of listening, notating, short answer and two longer essay questions. 40% of A Level

Entry requirements

4 in English Language and Grade 6 ABRSM (or equivalent) on one instrument or voice