KS5 Course Overview

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT: MRS L GREENWOOD

 

“Music makes a kind of liquid link between the study of languages, literature and the other arts, history and the sciences – joining them together in the outer world of feelings and relationships and the inner world of the imagination.” - Dr Robin Holloway (composer)

Course Content and Assessment

The syllabus provides a balanced course in music, which at the same time gives scope for the development of individual interests and aptitudes.  The means of study can involve the use of ICT whenever its use is appropriate.

AS level

This may be used as a final qualification allowing candidates to broaden their studies and to defer decisions about specialism, or as the first half (50%) of an A-level qualification.  The examination specification will be as follows:

Unit 1	Written Paper	40% of total AS marks 20% of total A level marks
Understanding Music: Questions on 3 set works and an essay question on a topic chosen by the candidate
Unit 2	Coursework	30% of total AS marks 15% of total A level marks
Composing: 2 original compositions
Unit 3	Coursework	30% of total AS marks 15% of total A level marks
Performing: Performance of two pieces – 1 ensemble performance and a performance of 1 of your compositions

A2 level

In addition to the units above candidates will complete the following:

Unit 4	Listening and Written Paper	15% of total A level marks
Understanding Music: Music of the 20th and 21st Centuries
Unit 5	Coursework	20% of total A level marks
Investigation, Report and Composition:  An investigation of two works connected by some aspect(s), a report on findings, and composition of one piece of music based on this study
Unit 6	Recital	15% of total A level marks
Performing: A programme of solo music of between 4 and 7 minutes (assessed by visiting examiner)

Special Features

Involvement in the school’s extended curriculum programme of musical activities will be expected, sometimes in a leadership capacity. 

Opportunities will be provided by the department for students’ own public performance, and it is anticipated that students will make full use of these.

Higher Education and Career Routes

Music plays an important part in the UK economy.  A recent survey showed that music made net earning for the UK of over £570m.  Potential career paths include:  instrumental performer/singer, conducting, armed forces musician, teaching, examining/adjudicating, composing/arranging, music therapy, music journalism, librarianship, publishing, instrument manufacture/repair, sales, television/radio, recording industry, arts administration.

Entry Requirements

Candidates will normally have studied GCSE Music and achieved a C grade or better, although a student who has maintained an interest and an involvement in music throughout the school will always be considered.  You should be a performer on at least one instrument (or voice) to Grade 4 standard or equivalent, and ideally have some keyboard ability, however limited.

MUSIC TECHNOLOGY

Course Content and Assessment

This course is designed for those who wish to develop their skills in producing music using sequencing and recording equipment.  It is the ideal partner for Music A Level or, if the student has a desire to develop studio music production capabilities, it is the pathway to take.  It involves a 70% coursework element as there is a clear emphasis on practical work.

Unit 1	Part A – Practical Work – sequencing or recording 2 pieces + structured commentary examination	40%
	Arranging 2 pieces using music technology	30%
	Part B – Written Work – listening exam (2 hours)	30%

Unit 2	Part A – Practical Work – sequencing, recording and producing 2 pieces	15% of total A level marks
	Composing using technology	15% of total A level marks
	Part B – Written Work – listening exam (2 hours)	20% of total A level marks

Higher Education and Career Routes

This qualification is essential for those wishing to pursue studies, a career in studio engineering, music technology and/or sound recording.

Entry Requirements

Candidates should ideally be musicians, normally with the ability to read music and perform on an instrument or by voice.  GCSE Music is not essential as a pre-requisite but enthusiasm for music and the willingness to put in a lot of time after school and during lunchtimes is.  Candidates should also be aware that some ability on keyboard is an advantage.