Music
Eduqas/WJEC Mr Harvey Brink
Why should I study Music?
Please be prepared that A level Music at Wells is unique in that you will be in class with large numbers of some of the most talented, dedicated and experienced young musicians in the country.
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Because I intend to pursue a course in music in higher education. Because I am a specialist musician and academic and theoretical understanding is key to being a well-rounded and fully-equipt musician. Because I enjoyed studying music at GCSE and am interested in taking this further. Because A level Music will compliment my other choices, adding an arts-based subject to my selection. Because I spend a lot of time playing music and want to put this towards a formal academic qualification.
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking Music? Pupils should have taken music at GCSE level and obtained at least a Level 6. They should be able to play any musical instrument to Grade 6+ or equivalent standard and have passed Grade 5 theory.
What will I learn?
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To study music with an integrated approach through performing, composing and listening. To study a wide range of music including classical, world, pop and jazz styles. To rehearse and perform music to a high standard. To compose in musical styles related to areas of historical study.
Who is this course suitable for? This specification extends the GCSE skills of Performing, Composing and Appraising in ways which emphasise their interdependence. There are no limits on the instruments (or voices) and types of repertoire which may be presented in performance and the study of the widest possible range of music, including folk, popular and classical traditions of non-Western origin as well as those of jazz and Western classical and popular traditions, is encouraged.
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How is the course assessed? Component 1: Performing Option A Total duration of performances: 10-12 minutes Option A: 35% of qualification Component 2: Composing Option A Total duration of compositions: 4-6 minutes Option A: 25% of qualification Component 3: Appraising Written Examination 2 hours 15 minute exam in the Upper Sixth 40% of qualification The Western Classical Tradition: the Development of the Symphony 1750-1900 Jazz 1920-1960 Into the 20th Century Impressionism, Expressionism, Serialism, NeoClassicism
What could I go on and do at the end of my course? Many of our musicians go on to study Music at top Universities, including Oxbridge, as well as leading conservatoires across the world. The A level in Music can also lead to further study in Music or Performing Arts in higher education at degree level, or more generally into a career in the music industry. Music can also be used as part of your Sixth Form course to broaden your studies and is well regarded by universities as a rigorous and academic second or third subject leading on to a very wide variety of courses. Specialist musicians are expected to take A level Music and are encouraged to take a course in Music Technology. Special Provision Musicians are strongly advised to take A level Music.
