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.

On this course 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 

Assessment: You will be assessed by a combination of coursework (60%), including a performance recital and composition portfolio, and by an end of year written examination (40%).  

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. Future job roles might include musician, musicologist, instrumental teacher, composer or music journalist.  

Eight GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths 

This subject requires Music at grade 6 (if taken), and/or grade 5 theory, along with previous participation in music ensembles would be an advantage 

You must be able to read standard music notation confidently and be familiar with both treble and bass clefs 

You should be able to perform at a standard equivalent to grade 4/5. In the absence of exam certificates, evidence will be required of the standard of performance achieved 

This course can be combined with others and goes well with any other courses which make up a full time programme. 

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.