Music

Who should take the course? 

Anyone with: 

• An interest in studying music in a variety of styles through analysis, listening, performing and composing

• A love of music and an open-minded approach to different styles and cultures

• An ability to read music

• Ability to undertake self-directed work 

What is the course about? 

The course is studied in units, which encompass performing, composing, listening and analysis (musical understanding). In musical understanding students study four areas of musical history. These range from Classical music of 1750 and Romantic Programme music of the 1800’s to 20th century popular song and instrumental Jazz from 1910 of the present day.

How is it assessed? 

Unit 1: Performance   35% 10 minute approx. performance of at least three contrasting pieces. Externally assessed. 

Unit 2: Composition  25% Two Compositions completed under controlled conditions and externally assessed against a brief set by the exam board. 

Unit 3: Musical understanding Two and a half-hour exam, including listening, understanding musical lines and essay writing related to the musical history periods of study. 

Where will it take me?

• University courses in Music/ related Music courses

• University admissions officers often look for Music when selecting for other subjects e.g. medicine and law

• Vocational Music/ Music related Higher Education courses

• Music industry work/ apprenticeships

• Opportunity to play huge role in performing and extra-curricular life of the school

• A lifelong love of music