Music

A-Level Music is aimed at girls who have studied music at GCSE and want to develop their skills and understanding further. They should have a performance standard of at least Grade 5 at the beginning of the Lower Sixth course. The course is supported by regular opportunities to perform in ensembles and as a soloist and attend concerts.

We are studying the AQA specification which is divided into three sections: Appraising Music (40%), Performance (35%) and Composing (25%)

Areas of Study

The areas of study provide an appropriate focus for students to appraise, develop and demonstrate an in-depth knowledge and understanding of musical elements, musical contexts and musical language. The areas of study can also provide a rich source of material for students to work with when developing performance and composition skills. At Kent College, students will study:

1. Western classical tradition 1650-1910 (compulsory)
2. Music for theatre
3. Art music since 1910

Set works include the Marriage of Figaro, Baroque solos concerti and songs from Music theatre such as Oklahoma and One Day More.

Performance

Students perform a selection of pieces totalling at least 10 minutes. The recordings are then sent off for moderation.

Composing

Component 2: Performance

Solo and/or ensemble performance as an instrumentalist or vocalist

A minimum of 10 minutes of performance in total is required (no more than 12 minutes). This component is worth 35% of the marks and is externally assessed by examiners.

Component 3: Composition

This component consists of composition to a brief and free composition. A minimum of four and a half minutes of music in total is required. The component is worth 25% of the marks and is externally marked.                          

Career Opportunities

Music A-Level is one of the Arts subjects rated highly by universities as it combines academic, practical and creative elements and gives students a range of transferable skills. Careers in music include becoming a teacher, professional musician (solo performer, orchestral player), sound engineer, recordist (e.g. for Sony, EMI, BBC etc.), musicologist, critic, librarian, composer, acting/ stage musicals, instrument making, music therapist and arts administrator.