A Level: Music
Course title: Advanced GCE in Music
Exam board: Edexcel
Subject specific entry criteria: Grade 6 in GCSE Music or the ability to play an instrument and read music at Grade 5 level (ABRSM or equivalent). If you have not studied GCSE Music, you will need to be able to prove a performance level that is appropriate for A Level.
Course overview
The course is designed to give all students the opportunity to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills of music whatever their previous experience. The course is made up of three components.
Component One: Performance
- Total performance time of 8 minutes
- Performance can be solo and/or ensemble
- We are able to support our students with 1:1 instrument tuition from a specialist musician
Component Two: Composition
2 compositions 1 to set brief – minimum of 2 minutes 1 free or to set brief – minimum of 2 minutes Together, total min of 4½ minutes
Component Three: Appraising
6 Areas of Study with 2 set works in each:
- Vocal Music
- Instrumental Music
- Music for Film
- Popular Music and Jazz
- Fusions
- New Directions
Assessment overview
Component One:Performance 30% NEA Total of 60 marks (12 marks available for difficulty of pieces)
Component Two: Composition 30% NEA Total of 60 marks 2 pieces: 40 marks 20 marks
Component Three: Appraising 40% Exam Exam: 1hour 30minutes Total of 80 marks
Future progression
Progression to the further study of Music falls mainly into two pathways post-18: a traditional university-based music degree or a specialist music conservatoire. We work in partnership with arts organisations including the Royal Northern College of Music to support our students in accessing opportunities to progress at the highest level.
Potential careers
An A Level in music can open the doors to a career in many fields including: performing, composing, arranging and editing, publishing, recording and production, teaching and music therapy. There are also opportunities to work in music administration, journalism, marketing, engineering and arts management.
How to succeed in Music
You need to have a genuine interest in listening to diverse musical content. You need to be dedicated to practicing and developing on your instrument/voice. There is an expectation that you have weekly music lessons and that you can practice and compose independently. A keen interest in music through extra-curricular involvement in school orchestra, choirs and ensembles etc. is desirable.