Music A Level
Board: Edexcel
About the subject
An exciting and challenging course in which students to develop performance and composition skills and to further develop knowledge of a variety of music including classical, film, jazz and popular music. It is a creative subject which provides opportunities to work in your own preferred styles, whilst retaining a focus on traditional Western classical music. Studying A level music gives you the power to engage with and appreciate music more deeply and will greatly develop your skills as a musician.
The course is aimed at those who have previously attained some knowledge in music or aspects relating to it, either through a GCSE qualification or equivalent. Students may have also acquired suitable experience through less formal means as a performer or as an attentive listener.
Learning styles
You will be involved in many different activities including group work, individual study, tutorials, discussion, practical work to develop the different skills in the course: aural, history, harmony and composition.
Students on the course are encouraged to join the music ensembles available at the College as an extension to what they learn in the classroom; appraising, composing and performing.
A Level Music students must be having regular lessons in the instrument in which they will be assessed. If you would like more information or would like recommended teacher please email brd@collyers.ac.uk for more details.
Subject Combinations and Progression
Music combines well and contrasts with mathematics and science (particularly physics), modern foreign languages, media studies and other arts subjects.
Music A level provides an excellent foundation for further study of music (either at a conservatoire or university). Music is a highly regarded academic subject by both universities and employers, with students going onto study Medicine, Physics, Languages and many other disciplines.
Subject Modules and Assessment
Performing 30% of A Level Assessed by a recording done in March of the second year and assessed by an external examiner.
Composing 30% of A Level Externally assessed coursework. Produce two compositions: One free composition based on a brief from a choice of six briefs released in September of the second year (one from each Area of Study) and one composition from a list of four briefs assessing technique, released on 1st April of Year 2.
Appraising 40% of A Level – June – 2hour 10-minute written exam based on six areas of study: Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Film Music, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusion, New Directions. Will require essay writing skills along with aural skills on the works we have studied.
Entry requirements
4 in English Language. Grade 5 Instrument or voice + Grade 5 Theory standard preferred. Applicants without Grade 5 standard on an instrument may be considered subject to an audition. GCSE music not required