Music

Course summary

Music A-Level students will be required to perform at a level that exceeds Grade 5. However, this does not mean that you need to have followed the traditional pathway of national grades in music; we are looking for students who are passionate about singing or playing an instrument and who are regularly performing as a soloist or in an ensemble. You will also need to be a keen composer who has a rounded knowledge of Sibelius software, and be able to listen to, understand and read music. On this course you will explore Music through Performing, Composing, Listening and Appraising. You will build up your aural and analytical skills by studying selections from the New Anthology of Music and wider listening. You will compose an extended piece of music, and complete a compositional exercise which will develop your knowledge and understanding of harmony. You will learn how to fully analyse and study any piece of music and will be expected to listen to a wide range of different musical styles. Please note, as well as the practical elements, the Music A-Level course includes a large amount of written work and an essaybased written examination, so strong literacy is important. Sixth Form students are encouraged to take a leading role with ensembles and also have opportunities to conduct groups and arrange music for ensembles.