Music
A Level Music is a challenging and engaging course that develops skills in Performing, Composing and Analysis; it combines individual creativity with the development of a high level of technical understanding.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be able to play an instrument/sing?
Yes.
The performance component of the course requires you to be at Grade 6 standard (or equivalent) on your chosen instrument at the point of assessment. Whilst every student progresses at a different rate, it would generally be expected that you would have reached at least Grade 5 standard by the beginning of the course.
Do I need to have studied Music in Year 10 and 11?
Typically, students who take this course will have studied Music at GCSE level. If you haven’t then it would generally be expected that you had obtained some relevant academic music training through theory examinations or something similar instead.
What are lessons like?
Lessons will vary depending on the topic or skill being taught. However, they are very rarely given in a ‘lecture’ style and instead rely on collaboration, practical exploration and independent research. Students are encouraged to share their views, opinions and ideas and provide support to their peers through effective collaboration. Feedback, both formal and informal, is given often and forms the basis for discussion and debate.
