Music

Assessment

Component 1: Performing Performances are externally marked and assessed and are worth 30% of the A Level. Students are to produce a live recorded performance of at least 8 minutes of one or more pieces as part of a recital, playing or singing solo, in an ensemble, improvising, or realising music using Music Technology. Students are marked on technique, accuracy, fluency, expressive control, style and context, with further marks for difficulty. Component 2: Composition Two compositions are externally marked and assessed and are worth 30% of the A Level. One composition is a free composition, or students can use a brief set by the examination board, with a minimum length of four minutes. The other composition is the completion of a Bach Chorale task released by the examination board, with a minimum length of one minute. The minimum length of both compositions combined is 6 minutes. Component 3: Appraising Appraising is assessed through a written, listening and aural skills two-hour examination worth 40% of the A Level. Students are assessed on their ability to analyse a musical score focussing on six set works, wider listening and dictation.