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A Level

Music

Entry Requirements

GCSE Maths and English at Grade 5 or above with an average points score of 4.9 or above. Students must have the ability to play an instrument or sing to at least a grade 5 standard on entry to the course with the potential to gain grade 7/8 by the end of the course.

Assessment Method

This course is assessed by performance (30%), composition (30%) and an appraising written exam (40%).

About this course

This course is ideal for learners who are passionate about all aspects of music! This should include playing an instrument or singing: if you have a love for the culture of music in its broadest sense then this course is for you. The course is designed to develop students’ existing performance, composition and written skills to the highest level and fully prepare the student for a degree in music, a future in the music industry, or just for the enjoyment of studying music in more depth. You can complement your studies with enrichment activities including Jazz Rock Band, Orchestra, Wind Band, Mixed Voice Choir or further Music Grades. Lessons are also offered in partnership with the North Lincolnshire Music Service in all instrument families, piano and voice. Regular performances are the beating heart of the department and all students are invited to be involved as both ensemble members and soloists. There are numerous performance experiences on offer, from formal recitals to playing at galas and rock gigs.

Who is this course aimed at?

This course is aimed at students who:

  • Have enjoyed playing an instrument or singing for several years and would like to take their performance, composition and written skills to a higher level

  • Would like to study music in more depth than may have been available at school, developing analytical and listening skills to a high level

  • Would like to go to a Conservatoire or University to study music, or to take up a career in the Music Industry in one of a multitude of professional roles ranging from performance to arts admin

What will you learn?

This course consists of 3 components: performance, composition and analytical written skills. You should be aiming to produce a recital of approximately 10 minutes in length on your main instrument or voice to approximately a grade 7/8 standard in the second year. We have a professional accompanist who will work with you to produce a programme that showcases your talent. In composition you will explore how compositions are created, learn the building blocks of successful harmonisation and produce original compositions to a variety of briefs including film music, vocal music and orchestral music. You will also look at how to create an arrangement of a melody for a variety of forces. The written element centres around 13 set works covering a wide variety of music from Baroque to Film Music, Pop and Jazz to Contemporary. Because of this, being able to read music is a must! You will develop your analytical and listening skills and learn how to write an effective discursive essay on both prepared and unprepared works.

What skills will you develop?

  • Analysing and evaluating music performance

  • Problem solving

  • Communication

  • Decision Making

  • Attention to Detail

  • Teamwork

  • Literacy skills

  • Organisational skills

  • Confidence

  • Independence

  • Creative thinking

  • Resilience

  • Public performance

Related Courses

Looking for something that works well with this course? Here are some related courses to consider.

Musical Theatre

Dance

Drama

Progression routes

  • Peri Music Teacher

  • Teacher

  • Orchestra Player

  • Musician

  • Singer

  • Composer

  • Army Musician

  • West End Pit Musician

  • Music Therapist

  • Stage Management

  • Orchestral Management

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