Music Technology

Assessment

The Music Technology A Level is split into four components: two coursework and two examined. For the two coursework components, students must produce a recording of a popular song, chosen from a list of 10 songs provided by the examination board, and are assessed on the quality of their recording, including their use of microphone techniques and post-production. Students must also produce a technology-based composition, using the Logic Pro DAW. Students are assessed on their creative use of music technology including sampling, synthesis and effects, as well as the musical coherence of their composition. One of the two examined components is a conventional written paper, which involves responding to extracts of recordings and analysing the recording techniques used in the context of the period. There is also an essay question on a specific aspect of music technology. The second examined component is less conventional, and involves students manipulating audio and MIDI materials provided by the exam board in Logic, in response to specific instructions, alongside a further extended written response. Throughout the course, students develop their skills of recording techniques and use of a DAW alongside learning about fundamental Music Technology theory and history such as the fundamentals of sound and the development of recording technology from the 1950s to the present day.