A-Level Music
SUBJECT LEADER
Mrs L Bowerman-Ellis
EXAM BOARD
Edexcel
SPECIFICATION LINK
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE Grade 4, or equivalent instrumental skills. Some keyboard skills would be advantageous.
Why choose A-Level Music?
The Blandford School is extraordinarily well set up for music with state of the art facilities for rehearsing, composing and studying music. The music A Level is an opportunity for you to pursue your own musical interests as well as broaden your skills and knowledge through studying a broad variety of music.
What you will study in A-Level Music?
The performing unit requires students prepare for a recital towards the end of course which must be a minimum of eight minutes. This could be as a soloist or member of an ensemble. The composition unit requires the study of harmony, composing arrangements and remixing. This will involve an exam at the end of the course as well as composing in response to a set brief. Appraising is the academic aspect of the course and requires the study of six topics: Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusions and New Directions.
How you will be assessed in A-Level Music?
Performing (30%) – a live performance of some music of your choice (between 8 and 12 minutes in total)
Composing (30%) – Total of two compositions, one to a brief and one either a free composition or also to a brief
Appraising (40%) – One written paper of 2 hours.
Additional Information
It is recommended that students who do A Level Music aim to complete Grade 5 Music Theory by the end of the course.