About this course
This course is ideal for students who are passionate about all aspects of music and want to develop their performance, composition and analytical skills to an advanced level. It is suited to learners who already enjoy playing an instrument or singing and want to explore music in greater depth.
Students will develop their existing musical abilities through regular performance opportunities, creative composition projects and detailed study of a wide range of musical styles. The course explores music from different periods, cultures and genres, allowing students to understand how composers create meaning through melody, harmony, rhythm, texture and structure.
The course provides an exciting balance between practical music-making and academic study. Students will have opportunities to perform as soloists and ensemble members through concerts, recitals and musical events. Additional enrichment opportunities include Jazz Rock Band, Orchestra, Wind Band, Mixed Voice Choir and further music grade development.
Lessons are also available through partnerships with the North Lincolnshire Music Service, supporting students across a range of instruments, piano and voice. Whether students aim to progress into higher education, a career in the music industry or simply wish to deepen their understanding and enjoyment of music, this course provides a strong foundation for future development.
What will you learn?
A Level Music develops students’ skills in performance, composition and musical analysis. Students will explore a wide range of musical styles while developing the practical and theoretical knowledge required for advanced musical study.
Topics covered include:
Performance Skills
Students will develop their ability to perform confidently as a soloist and ensemble musician. By the end of the course, students should aim to complete a recital of approximately 10 minutes at around Grade 7/8 standard on their main instrument or voice.Composition Skills
Students will explore how composers create effective musical ideas and develop their understanding of:Harmony
Melody writing
Musical structure
Arrangement techniques
Creating original compositions for different purposes
Composition Briefs
Students will create original pieces responding to a range of briefs, including:Film music
Vocal music
Orchestral composition
Arranging existing melodies for different ensembles
Musical Analysis and Appraising
Students will study a selection of set works from a variety of genres and historical periods, including:Baroque music
Classical traditions
Film music
Pop music
Jazz
Contemporary music
Listening and Analytical Skills
Students will develop the ability to identify and analyse musical features, understand composers’ intentions and write detailed responses about prepared and unfamiliar pieces.Musical Context and Interpretation
Students will explore how historical, cultural and social contexts influence musical styles and the ways music is created and performed.
Students will also develop confidence in reading music, evaluating performances and communicating musical ideas effectively through written and practical work.
Who is this course aimed at?
This course is aimed at students who have enjoyed playing an instrument or singing for several years and want to develop their musical skills to a higher level. It is suitable for learners who want to improve their performance ability, composition skills and understanding of musical theory.
Students who enjoy creating music, performing to audiences and exploring how music is constructed will benefit from this course. Learners should have a genuine interest in listening to and analysing a wide range of musical styles and be prepared to develop their independence through regular practice and creative work.
The course is ideal for students who may wish to progress to a university music course, conservatoire training or a career within the music industry. It also supports students who are interested in professional roles beyond performance, including composition, teaching, music production, arts administration and music therapy.
Students will develop confidence, creativity and communication skills that are valuable both within the creative industries and across a wide range of future careers.
Students should have achieved GCSE Maths and English at Grade 5 or above, with an average GCSE points score of 4.9 or above. Students should be able to play an instrument or sing to approximately Grade 5 standard on entry, with the potential to progress towards Grade 7/8 standard by the end of the course. This course is best suited to students with a strong passion for music, performance and creativity.
Assessment takes place through three components: performance (30%), composition (30%) and an appraising written examination (40%). Students will develop their performance skills through solo and ensemble work, create original compositions based on a range of briefs and complete a written examination exploring set works, musical analysis, listening skills and contextual understanding.
Students will develop skills in:
Musical and Creative Skills
Performing as a soloist and ensemble musician
Composing and arranging music
Analysing and evaluating musical performances
Developing creative ideas
Musical interpretation and expression
Analytical Skills
Listening and critical analysis
Understanding musical structures and techniques
Evaluating composers’ choices
Applying theoretical knowledge
Developing written responses and essays
Professional Skills
Organisation and preparation
Independent practice
Attention to detail
Problem-solving
Decision-making
Resilience and perseverance
Communication and Teamwork Skills
Collaboration with musicians and performers
Communicating musical ideas
Ensemble skills
Confidence in public performance
Progression routes
Possible progression routes include careers in:
Professional Music Performance
Composition
Music Education
Music Therapy
Musical Theatre
Arts Administration
Orchestral Management
Stage Management
Music Production
Career opportunities may include:
Peripatetic Music Teacher
Teacher
Orchestra Musician
Performer
Singer
Composer
Army Musician
West End Pit Musician
Music Therapist
Stage Manager
Orchestral Manager
Degree Routes
Students may progress to higher education courses in:
Music Performance
Composition
Music Production
Music Technology
Music Education
Performing Arts
This course also supports progression to conservatoires, universities and specialist music training, providing students with the practical experience, creative skills and analytical knowledge required for successful careers within the music industry.
Related Courses
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