Music
WQE and Regent College Group - Leicester
01162471147
University Road, Leicester, LE1 7RJ
Course summary

The A-level course consists of three units: Appraising Music (listening, analysis, and contextual understanding), Performing, and Composing. Listening to, analysing discussing, and writing about existing music provides the basis for many of the lessons, alongside the study of theory, four-part harmony, and other compositional techniques. There are frequent opportunities for individual and group activities and research, as well as performances and composition workshops. You will also be expected to carry out regular private instrumental practice.

Entry requirements

Six GCSEs grade 9–4 including English Language (must include at least two GCSEs at 5 or above for A-Level courses). This course also requires students to have achieved grade 5 or above in GCSE Music and at least Grade 6 standard on an instrument or voice (the expected standard for the final recital is Grade 7). Students who have not taken a graded exam will be asked to perform to demonstrate their ability. If GCSE Music has not been taken, knowledge of music theory to Grade 4 standard is essential (including a working knowledge of standard music notation – see ABRSM syllabus for further details). All Music students are expected to participate in at least one musical event at the College.

How you'll be assessed

For the performance units, you will give a recital on the instrument of your choice (or voice). It can be solo or ensemble, from a score or improvised. For composition you will create two pieces of music with a combined duration of 6 minutes: one a free-choice composition, and one a briefing assessing technique, it is submitted as coursework. The Appraising music unit is assessed through an exam in the summer examination period, comprising listening, analysis, and extended essay questions.

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionEast Midlands
Local AuthorityLeicester
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressUniversity Road, Leicester, LE1 7RJ