Music

Why study Music?

Studying Music A Level is the ideal preparation for further musical study at college or university. It is also suitable for keen musicians with a deep interest in learning more about the discipline. As well as our five full-time members of staff, the Music Department enjoys fantastic support from a large number of professional musicians who teach instruments and singing on a weekly basis. This gives us a vast amount of expertise and experience to draw upon. Pupils studying Music at A Level have the full use, benefits and inspiration of our splendid new Music School situated in the Merritt Centre. Among the state-of-the-art facilities are a suite of twelve Apple Mac computers, a Rock Room, a recording studio and, of course, the stunning Gransden Hall, already celebrated for its flexible performance space and superb acoustics.

Course content

The A Level course provides a great opportunity to develop skills in the following areas: performing, composing, studying, listening and analysing. Pupils need to be keen performers, instrumentally, vocally or both. The ability to play a keyboard instrument is a great advantage. The Performance element is coursework and includes either solo or ensemble performing or a mixture of the two. Studying traditional harmony enables pupils to compose in various pastiche styles and to develop their compositional expertise. Set works are drawn from an anthology of classical, popular, film and fusion styles and pupils develop skills in listening and analysis.

Will I enjoy it?

For those who love music, enjoy listening to a wide variety of genres and styles and have a real interest in ‘how music works’, this A Level course is an excellent option.

Through the performing and composing aspects, pupils have the chance to continue their growth as original, expressive and creative individuals.

What else should I consider?

Music sits well with any other academic subject, in the humanities or sciences. It is a good pathway to Higher Education at a conservatoire or university, either for a continuation of musical study or as preparation for any other academic, vocational or performative discipline. There are many career opportunities connected with music available, including performing, teaching, publishing, librarianship and work with broadcasting and recording industries.

Assessment

Examination board: Edexcel Specification Code: 9MU0

• Component 1: Performing 30% • Component 2: Composition 30% • Component 3: Appraising 40%

Who can give me more information? Mr Cracknell

m.cracknell@sherborne.com