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Music

Music

Creativity is one of the most important and in-demand skills at work. The study of creative subjects, like music, is more important and relevant than ever to young people to give them the chance to succeed.

Studying music, the possibilities are endless. Music will enable you to demonstrate many skills which employers, colleges and universities will be looking for. It can also give you opportunities to travel, meet people and get the most out of life.

Eduqas Music teachers were recently asked to give details of the next steps of former students. It was not a surprise to hear that many had continued to study Music at Music College, or universities including Cambridge, Derby, Durham, Huddersfield, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Oxford, Sheffield, Surrey and York. Others had gone on to University to read dentistry, medicine, journalism, veterinary medicine or computing. 

Why study music?

The course is designed to allow you to pursure your own musical interests while having the flexibility to specialise in either performing or composing. Students are able to engage with the diverse heritage of music across a wide range of traditions, genres and styles. 

Curriculum information

Qualification

A Level Music

Awarding Body

AQA

Assessment 1:

Exam Paper with listening and written questions using excerpts of music

 

  • Section A: Listening (56 marks)
  • Section B: Analysis (34 marks)
  • Section C: Essay (30 marks)
  • Component is 40% of A-Level (120 marks total) 

 

Assessment 2:

Composition

 

  • Composition 1: Compose to a brief (25 marks)
  • Composition 2: Free Composition (25 marks)
  • A minimum of four and a half minutes of music in total is required. 
  • Component is 25% of A-Level (50 marks total)
  • NEA will be externally marked by AQA examiners. 

 

Assessment 3:

Performance 

 

  • Solo performance and/or ensemble performing as an instrumentalist, or vocalist and/or music production (via technology).
  • A minimum of ten minutes of performance in total is required. 
  • Component is 35% of A-Level (50 marks total) 
  • Non-exam assessment (NEA) will be externally marked by AQA examiners. 

12

AoA Western Classical Tradition

Development of the Symphony

Symphony No. 104 in D major ‘London’: Haydn

NEA Composing to a brief

NEA Performing on chosen instrument

AoA Western Classical Tradition 

Symphony No. 4 in A major ’Italian’: Mendelssohn

AoC Musical Theatre

Lyrics and music

Music for characters 

NEA Composing to a brief

NEA Performing on chosen instrument

AoC Musical Theatre

Types of song and genres

Purpose and intention of composer

NEA Composing to a brief

NEA Performing on chosen instrument

13

AoE Into the Twentieth Century

Modernism/Maximalism

Impressionism

Expressionism

Serialism

Neo-Classicism

Trio for Oboe, Bassoon and Piano, Movement II: Poulenc

Three Nocturns, Number 1, Nuages: Debussy

NEA Composing to a brief

NEA Performing on chosen instrument

Revision of AoA

Revision of AoC

Revision of AoE

 

 

BTEC Level 3 Music Performance

12

Unit 1 Music Theory and Harmony

Examine signs and symbols in musical notation

Explore application of melodic composition

Explore application of chords and cadences for composition or arrangement

Produce correct musical notation for performance

Unit 2 Professional practice in the music industry

Importance of professional practice in the music industry

Operational requirements relevant to specific music industry 

 

Unit 2 Professional practice in the music industry

Skills for working in the music industry

Professional roles in the music industry

13

Unit 6 – Solo Performance 

Practice routines

Rehearsal Planning

Solo performance

Unit 3 - Ensemble Music Performance

Perform as part of an ensemble

Interpreting original music

Skills and techniques in rehearsals and performance

 

I loved studying A Level music because it gave me the freedom to perform the type of music I enjoy, whilst exploring new styles of music.
Grace, music student
I was able to develop my songwriting skills using new techniques to create a sound I love.
Matthew, music student