Music
Contact : Mr S Austin Email : austins @ pocklingtonschool . com
Course : A Level Music Exam Board : Edexcel
Music A level is the perfect course for students who enjoy playing a musical instrument or singing who wish to develop their understanding and appreciation of the music they perform . A level musicians perform , compose and analyse : a combination of activities which makes the subject especially engaging and varied .
A level music is a respected academic subject which sets students up well for university study . Students can expect to engage critically and creatively with a wide range of music and contexts .
The best reason to study Music A level is that you enjoy and have a talent for the subject , leading you to work hard and achieve an excellent result .
CONTENT OF COURSE
Performing – Students perform on their chosen instrument / voice throughout the course , taking part in performance opportunities and masterclasses , culminating in a final recital .
Composing – Through the study of the set works , students develop their understanding of compositional techniques to produce a free brief composition and some technical harmony work .
Appraising – Students listen to , analyse and write about a wide variety of music including : Vivaldi – Concerto in D minor , ‘ Psycho ’ by Bernard Herrmann , Kate Bush ’ s ‘ Hounds of Love ’ and Stravinsky ’ s ‘ Rite of Spring ’.
COURSE ENTRY AND QUALIFICATIONS
Pupils embarking on the course should be a minimum of grade 5 standard on their instrument / voice and be receiving instrumental / vocal lessons . A grade 5 theory qualification is an advantage . NB Taking GCSE Music is not a prerequisite for taking A level .
MUSIC AS A QUALIFICATION FOR FURTHER STUDY AND CAREER OPTIONS
Recognised by all universities as a rigorous academic course , A level music will prepare you to study a wide range of degree subjects including : sciences , humanities , languages and arts .
For those who wish to study music at university , Music A level is the perfect course . Music graduates become not only performers and composers but also presenters , producers , recording engineers , arts managers and administrators .
COURSE OUTLINE
A level ( examining all components of the 2 year course )
COMPONENT OVERVIEW ASSESSMENT
Component 1 Performing 30 % NEA
Component 2 Composing 30 % NEA
Component 3 Appraising 40 % Exam
Total performance time of 8 minutes Performance can be solo and / or ensemble
2 compositions 1 free or free choice brief – min 4 mins 1 brief assessing technique – min 1 min Together total min of 6 minutes
6 areas of Study with 3 set works in each Vocal Music Instrumental Music Music for Film Popular Music and Jazz Fusions New Directions
Total of 60 marks ( 12 marks available for difficulty of pieces )
2 pieces 40 marks 20 marks Total of 60 marks
Exam 2hrs Total 100 marks
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