Course information
Music
Uckfield College - East Sussex
01825764844
Downsview Crescent, Uckfield, TN22 3DJ
Course summary

The study of A Level Music has a very positive impact. The discipline, methodical approach, and work ethic of a musician are of great value in the modern workplace. When considering the importance of being able to cope with the demands of an ever-changing world, musicians typically display resilience, flexibility, self-motivation, and highly developed communication skills. Many of the students who choose to study demanding academic courses at University, such as medicine, are also musicians. A level of Music extends the GCSE skills of performing, composing, listening, and appraising through the study of a wide range of musical repertoire and approaches including music by Bach, Stravinsky, the Beatles, and Danny Elfman. The Appraising aspect of the course is assessed through a written exam at the end of the two-year course with questions presented on thirteen set works alongside knowledge of wider repertoire and context in the following areas of study: vocal music, instrumental music, film music, popular music and jazz, fusions and new directions. Knowledge of these set works will be built through analysis of the score and recordings, critical analysis of context, and drawing links and comparisons to other related works in the repertoire. Building a knowledge of wider repertoire is a vital aspect of the course and students are encouraged to listen to as much music from a diverse range of styles as possible. Performance requires a live performance recital in the second year of study and focuses on interpretation as well as accuracy and technique. There will be a trial recital performance in a dedicated concert in the first year and a full recital in the second year. This is recorded and externally moderated. Students should aim for at least grade 7 standards for performances. Composition techniques at A level are developed through producing a free composition, in any style or to a brief set by the exam board and completing two technical Bach Chorale exercises or an arrangement of a melody. Over the two years, students will build the skills and understanding required for completing the technical exercises with historical and harmonic style and accuracy and compose with technical accuracy and fluency

Entry requirements

An average of 5.5 QCA points (to include Music at grade 5 or above) and a 5 or higher in English.

How you'll be assessed

Performance: 30% Composing: 30% Listening Paper: 40%

School Info

About Education Provider

RegionSouth East
Local AuthorityEast Sussex
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeCo-Educational
AddressDownsview Crescent, Uckfield, TN22 3DJ