Key Stage 5
Qualification
AQA - A/S Music
Students are required to develop their existing musical skills in the areas of Understanding Music, Composition, Performance, Investigation; Report linked to a Composition.
Unit 1
- Understanding Music
- Study of set works including score analysis and essay writing
Unit 2
- Composition (coursework)
- Candidates submit 2 compositions.
Unit 3
- Ensemble Performance (coursework)
- Candidates perform a recital PLUS a realisation of
one of the compositions composed in unit 2
Course Length
One year
Entry Requirements
A higher grade pass in the subject at GCSE OR evidence of success in Associated Board or similar practical qualifications. (Standard of playing to be grade VI by the time of examination.)
Course Delivery
Analysis of real music, harmony training, composition workshops, performance workshops. For instrumental progress individual lessons from a specialist teacher are essential.
Students are encouraged to use IT to enhance their presentation and compositional skills. Key software packages are 'Sibelius' and 'Cubasis'.
Depending upon availability students are offered the opportunity to hear live music performed at local venues. The department organises a number of extra-curricular ensembles and concerts of which we would hope that students would be involved in. The opportunity to enhance personal musical skills by directing an ensemble of their own is a real possibility.
Assessment Method
Essays, listening tasks and composition are all assessed on an ongoing basis. These elements are assessed by an external examiner in the final instance.
Progression from the course
Degrees in Music or Arts (both serious and light music)
Music technology courses leading to studio work.
Skills gained are essential for those wishing to teach music either as a classroom teacher or freelance musician.
For advanced players and those wishing to specialise in composition / history, music degrees and performance courses at music colleges are possibilities.
