A-Level in Music

Music is both an emotive and academic subject, which has the ability to communicate a range of emotions through both performing and composing. It can also develop social and cultural understanding through the study of music from different periods, cultures and contexts.

Students will be creative through composing their own pieces of music that can be linked to their own interest in music. There are a number of performances where they will develop performing skills either as a solo or part of ensemble. They will develop theoretical skills through studying set works across a range of genres, time periods and a variety of purpose. This will help develop their understanding of music and how it has been influenced through time.

More info in our Arts Department options booklet: https://options.ashbyschool.org.uk/flip/leaflets/Arts.pdf

Students will be assessed on their practical, interpretative, creative and aural skills, as well as their knowledge and understanding of the subject.

Component 1 – Performance 30%

Component 2 – Composition 30%

Component 3 – Listening and Appraising 40%

For all Sixth Form courses, students must have five GCSE (or equivalent) passes at Grades 9-4, which must include Mathematics and English Language/Literature at a Grade 4 or above. To study Music at A level, students should have a Grade 4 in GCSE Music and/or have achieved Grade 5 standard in performance and the ability to read music.

Students can take this course to complement other Advanced Level courses, which could lead onto Higher Education to study Music related courses or more general Higher Education courses.

With further training, students may choose a career related to Music. Alternatively, students may wish to use their music ability for recreational purposes. This is a recognised qualification that will provide students with skills, understanding and knowledge that employers in various industries may be looking for.

People who study Music go on to performing, Creating Soundtracks for Film and Television, working on sound in Theatres, Radio DJ, Conducting, Composing, Sound Technicians, Producing, Mixing, Events Organisers, Musical Journalist, Teacher, or Instrumental Teacher.