Why Study Music?

This course is designed to help you develop your skills as a performer, composer, and listener. You study the theory and history of music, will have instrumental or vocal lessons, and perform as both a soloist and as part of ensembles. The course gives you a broad range of skills which are highly desirable at university level.

What does the course involve?

• Performing – 30% with a ‘final recital’ of at least 8 minutes at the end of the course

• Compositional Techniques – 10%

• One original Composition – 20%

• Listening and Understanding – 40% final exam, which involves knowledge and analysis of 13 set works plus related works

You will receive 9 hours lesson time during the fortnight, additional listening, homework on knowledge and analysis of set works, homework on compositional techniques and composition, developing performing skills – practice lessons, concerts, and research. You will be an active part of the vibrant extracurricular life of the Music Department and a role model to our younger musicians, developing your leadership and personal skills.

Our Christmas and Summer Concerts, ‘Glastonbrooke’ festival, school shows, annual Music Festival and the use of a Bosendorfer Concert Grand Piano in our purposebuilt Performing Arts Centre all help to enrich the life of our sixth form musicians.

How will I be assessed?

Performing: You will need to prepare a recital of at least 8 minutes in length, assessed externally.

Composing: You will be assessed externally

Analysis: There is a two hour and 10-minute listening and written paper at the end of Year 13.

Leading to a career in?

A-Level Music is widely accepted as a general qualification for entry into any type of business or organisation or for entry into a wide range of degree courses in other subjects. You could take this course with other advanced level courses to prepare for higher education in Music related courses or more general higher education courses.

With further training, you could go into a job related to Music such as a Music Composer, Freelance Musician, Sound Technician, Theatre, Concert Management, or you may wish to use your music ability for recreational purposes. The course is designed to provide you with access to a range of music related employment and will also develop the skills, understanding and knowledge that many employers seek.