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 Faculty runs a large number of different ensembles and organises 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

• Rock Bands
• 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 including Tina Turner, 9-5, Wicked, The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, The Aurora Orchestra, London Philharmonic Orchestra
• National Festival of Music for Youth Tours abroad (Barcelona in 2016)
• Monthly Tea Time Concerts, Battle of the Bands, End of Term Concerts
• Partnerships including Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, The Royal Academy of Music, The Royal College of Music, National Youth Jazz Orchestra, WaterBear The College of Music, Goldsmiths University and Recording Studios
• Artist Workshops
• Support with KS3 Music Scholars Programme