Examining board: AQA
Music syllabus 2270
Entry requirements
We recommend a grade C or above at Music GCSE with a minimum of grade 6 standard on their first-study instrument or voice.
Candidates who have not taken GCSE, but are instrumentalists or singers at grade 6 or above and have passed grade 5 theory may be considered after discussion with the Head of Music.
It is expected that A Level Music students will take part fully in the life of the Music department and involve themselves in choirs, orchestra, chamber ensembles and stage productions as appropriate.
They are encouraged to perform in concerts both at school and at local venues.
The course will encourage students to:
Extend their skills, knowledge, appreciation, musicianship and confidence through music making and study.
Develop particular strengths and interests and help prepare for music-related courses at Higher Education and careers.
Broaden experience, develop imagination, foster creativity and promote personal and social development.
The course is divided into six units, 3 at AS and 3 at A2 level.
AS
|
Unit
|
Area of study
|
Assessment
|
Weighting (AS)
|
Weighting (A2)
|
|
1
|
Influences on Music
(Listening)
|
Examination
|
30%
|
15%
|
|
2
|
Developing Musical ideas (Composition)
|
Externally assessed coursework
|
30%
|
15%
|
|
3
|
Performing 2 recitals
(solo & ensemble)
|
Externally assessed examination
|
40%
|
20%
|
A2
|
Unit
|
Area of study Music in Context
|
Assessment
|
|
A Level Weighting
|
|
4
|
Historical listening topics by examination
|
Externally assessed
|
|
20%
|
|
5
|
Composing
|
Assessment by commissioned exercise
|
|
15%
|
|
6
|
Performing
(solo performance)
|
Externally assessed examination
|
|
15%
|
Mr J Tizzard BMus (Hons) Dip Ed PGCE