A Level Music

COURSE OVERVIEW- EDUQAS

Course Summary:

• Performing (35/25%), Composing (25/35%) and Appraising (40%)​ - you choose whether you would like to specialise in more composing or performing
• Need to have studied GCSE Music or have been active in all three areas​
• Grade 5 Theory Knowledge required – or willingness to achieve this level quickly in Year 12​
• Performance level of Grade 7/8 by end of course is required​
• Free individual instrumental lessons will be taught in-house by our music team
• A challenging yet highly rewarding A-Level course at a music specialist college

Performing: 35%/25% of the qualification-

• A public performance of one or more pieces, performed as a recital.
• ​Externally assessed by a visiting examiner in Year 13 (March-May)- one or more pieces​
• Can be solo and/or ensemble​
• Minimum performance time 6 minutes (25%) or 10 minutes (35%)​

Composing: 35%/25% of the qualification-

• Total of two compositions, one to a brief set by Eduqas and one either free Composition or also to a brief.

• One is ‘free’ composition or to a suggested brief​

• One is to a brief set by Eduqas​

• Can use Logic Pro X, Live Instruments and/or Sibelius software​

• Minimum combined length 4 minutes (25%) or 8 minutes (35%)

Appraising: Written examination at the end of Year 13 - 40% of the qualification

• Three Areas of Study – Western Classical Tradition (The Development of the Symphony 1750-1900); one area of study from Rock and Pop, Musical Theatre or Jazz; and one area of study from Into the Twentieth Century or Into the Twenty-first Century ​

• Each Area of Study has 3 set works which can be a single piece of music or an album/larger work​

• Final Exam is approximately 2 hours 15 minutes​

• Mixture of listening to familiar music, Melodic and Rhythmic dictation, unfamiliar listening, extended responses​

Why study A-Level Music?

• Opportunity to explore music in greater depth than GCSE​

• Develop into a more confident and skilled performer, leading to your final recital​

• Be able to compose more advanced music including to a set technical brief​

• Preparation for a lifelong love of music, further study or future employment as a well-respected qualification in any field ​

• Develops skill in deliberate practice, resilience, creativity, problem solving and teamwork​

   

ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES

The Music Department runs a large number of different ensembles and organizes a huge number of events to cater for a variety of musical interests.

Core Ensembles

• String Orchestra
• Symphonic Wind Band
• Senior Choir
• Vocal Consort
• Chamber Orchestra
• Intermediate Choir
• Intermediate Orchestra
• Swing Band

Small Ensembles

• Barbershop Quartet
• Clarinet & Flute Ensembles
• Guitar Ensemble
• Percussion Group
• String Quartet

Events and Activities

• GLA Service of remembrance at City Hall
• Christmas Concert at Goldsmiths College
• Carol Service in Southwark Cathedral
• Spring & Summer Concerts
• School Musical Production
• Visits to concerts and workshops in London
• National Festival of Music for Youth Tours abroad (Barcelona in 2016)