A Level

Why study the subject?

In this course, students will have the opportunity to develop their musical skills to a very high level. They will develop a deep understanding of their music, higher order thinking skills – analysis, critical thinking, problem solving, plus independent learning and research.They will also develop the ability to present ordered and coherent arguments

Students will explore composition and performance techniques, and make connections between different pieces, styles and genres. Topics include the History of Western Music, Pop, Jazz, Folk and World music. Students will also study specific set works and a topic which change each year.

Linked Undergraduate Degrees:

Music at A Level is essential for those students wishing to follow a musical career. However, students who study Music at A Level also often go on to study other courses including Medicine, Law, Accountancy, Economics, Business Studies, Psychology, Humanities and Mathematics.

How is the subject taught?

In year 12 you will receive 4 lessons each week from 2 music teachers, each focusing on different areas of the course. Due to the typically small numbers in this class, you will receive much individual support and attention as well as plenty of involvement in class discussion. Further to this, you will be expected to contribute to the musical life of the school through CCAs and other musical events. This helps to broaden your experience and strengthen your performance skills.

Year 13 consists entirely of coursework. Your teacher will work with you on an individual basis to ensure you make good choices regarding your coursework and will support, encourage, discuss and advise you personally along the way on a weekly basis.

What topics are taught in Music?

In year 12, topics include the History of Western Music, Pop, Jazz, Folk and music from different cultures around the world. Students will also study specific set works and a topic, which will change each year. All topics are taught on an ongoing basis and in increasing depth as the year progresses.

In year 13 students will be able to choose 2 out of 3 coursework options: Performance, Composition and Investigation and report.

Year 12

Term 1.1

History of Music overview, Introduction to Set works and topics.

Performance and composition skills

Term 1.2

Set works, Essay writing, Performance and Composition coursework

Term 2.1

Set works, Essay writing, Performance and Composition coursework

Term 2.2

Set works, Essay writing, Completion of Performance and Composition coursework

Term 3

Set works and topics

Year 13

Term 1.1

Coursework

Term 1.2

Coursework

Term 2.1

Coursework

Term 2.2

All coursework to be completed and submitted by the end of term.

Term 3

NONE

Key assessment dates:

Students will be assessed throughout the year using a range of activities and will sit for tests at multiple points throughout the year. Please see below for predicted assessments, however, please note, they may change throughout the year based on public holidays and other activities:

Year 12

Term 1.1

N/A

Term 1.2

First composition completed

Term 2.1

Mock exam

Term 2.2

All performance and composition coursework completed and submitted

Term 3

AS exam

Year 13

Term 1.1

All initial research and coursework plans to be finalised by the end of September

Term 1.2

Coursework progress reviewed on a weekly basis

Term 2.1

Coursework to be completed by the end of February.

Term 2.2

All performance and composition coursework completed and submitted

Term 3

A Level Exam