Music AS/A Level

Any A Level subjects can be combined. A Levels can also be studied alongside a BTEC Level 3 Certificate. You will complete AS Level in Year 1.

This course will lead to an understanding of the techniques of composition and performance and give a historical perspective of music styles.

This course is ideal if you are enthusiastic and curious about a wide range of musical styles and genres and want to explore these in much greater detail through performance, composition and musical analysis.

As well as being taught as part of a group you will be involved in small group projects and in individual research for assignments. You will be assessed by a combination of coursework and end of year examinations, including a performance recital.

What topics will I study?

You will:

• Perform, compose and critically appraise music throughout the course
• Join orchestras, choirs, bands and other groups
• Take trips to professional concerts
• Practise in our purpose built recording studios, rehearsal suites and performance areas
• Join Exeter College’s Music Academy, with its masterclasses and workshops led by industry professionals

Assessment: 

• We run the EDUQAS board which requires 60% coursework (including a performance recital and composition portfolio) and an end of year written paper 40% (appraising)

Choose this course if… you are enthusiastic and curious about a wide range of musical styles and genres and want to explore these in much greater detail through performance, composition and musical analysis.

Future Steps: You could go on to a university or music conservatoire or work in areas such as performance, composition, music teaching, music journalism or music therapy.

You will need eight GCSEs at grade 4 or above (including English Language and Maths).

A good performance standard is required on an instrument or voice (equivalent to grade 4/5). You will do a short solo performance in the first few weeks of the course. You must also have a good basic understanding of music theory and notation (treble and bass clefs). We recommend a theory standard of grade 5 or working towards an equivalent standard. We require grade 6 or above Music GCSE (if taken). Not having a GCSE in Music does not mean you cannot join the A Level course, but we would need to discuss your musical backgrounds and skills in more detail at interview.

Our Centre for Music and Performance includes recording studios, Mac suites running the latest versions of Sibelius and Logic, rehearsal suites, practice rooms and performance areas. You will also have access to Learning Resource Centres.

There may be some additional costs for musical scores and trips.