Subjects and Entry Requirements
Why study music?
A level music is a rigorous academic subject which equips students with the written, analytical, practical and personal skills which are essential to success. For this reason, it is a highly valued qualification not only for those looking to pursue a career in the creative arts, but also for those interested in fields such as accountancy, law, media or medicine.
The course focusses on the development of three key skills: performing; composing and
listening; and appraising. Students build on their own knowledge of musical theory, gain a solid understanding of the basic principles of performance, refine their practical skills, study and practice composition, and expand their knowledge of music history through listening and appraisal.
Within these areas of study, A level Music offers students the opportunity to develop their ability to use musical devices and conventions through composition, engage with and increase awareness and appreciation of the diverse heritage of music, and develop critical evaluation skills through appraising their own and other’s music.
Students who study A level Music have unique access to industry experts and professional musicians who provide opportunities to further develop your skills in performance and composition through expert masterclasses, tutorials, and performance opportunities.
What Will I Study?
You will study a variety of pieces from Western, non-Western, Classical, and popular genres and analyse what makes these pieces of music so successful.
You will also study advance composition techniques and produce a portfolio of original work, and advance performance technique to produce a recital programme.
How will I be assessed?
40% written exam testing your knowledge of the set works, and your ability to analyse pieces of music you’ve never heard before.
30% will come from your portfolio of compositions, and 30% will come from your performance recital.
Career Pathways
- Sound Technician
- Community Musician
- Music Therapy
- Teaching
- Music Production
- Music Management, in. HR, Finance, Marketing, Administration
- Events management and marketing
Explore where music could take you with ucas
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