MUSIC

1. Performing : you will perform as a soloist, a member of an ensemble or as an accompanist and prepare a programme of at least three contrasting pieces with a total duration of 10 -15 minutes.

2. Composition : you will develop your composition skills leading to the creation of two compositions which need to have a combined duration of at least four minutes and thirty seconds.

3. Listening and Appraising: you will take a listening exam during the summer term of Year 13. Preparation for this examination involves studying six set works from a combination of Classical and Jazz repertoires. The first two sections of the examination will assess the students’ ability to answer questions about the music they listen to during the examination. The final section is a brief essay question relating to the classical and jazz set works.

1. Performing: 35% of A Level: The performance is filmed in school and sent off to be assessed by an external examiner. At least three pieces need to be performed with a total duration of 10 - 15 minutes.

2. Composition: 25% of A Level Two compositions. Externally assessed portfolio.

3. Listening and Appraising: 40% of A Level Timed examination paper during the summer term - 2.5 hours.

If you wish to take Music at A Level, it helps , firstly, that you have studied music at GCSE and secondly, that you have practical skills on an instrument/voice to approximately grade 6 level. It is also advantageous to have studied music theory to at least grade 5 level.

Students who wish to undertake A Level Music should be willing to participate in a number of co-curricular activities within the school that will support their studies, such as choir and musical ensembles, and be prepared to do the necessary practice on their instrument/voice to prepare for the performances.

The A Level Music course provides a sound foundation for courses in Music in Higher Education and employment possibilities which include the music industry, teaching and other related careers.