Music

Assessment

Performance (30%) The course offers a wealth of performing opportunities in and out of School as a soloist and ensemble musician. A-level Music pupils prepare for an extended recital with regular coaching, workshops and performance opportunities. Composition and Compositional Techniques (30%) A-level musicians develop free compositional skills as well as hone the techniques of various historical and contemporary styles, such as song, string quartet, chorales and jazz styles. In free composition, A-level pupils are free to set their briefs and develop their compositional language. Listening and Appraising (40%) At A-level, pupils study a variety of topics from the 16th Century to the present day. The topics and works studied are chosen with the interests of the particular pupils in mind. These are assessed with a written exam featuring aural questions on unfamiliar pieces and essay writing. Possible topics include: • Instrumental Music of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven • Popular Song: Blues, Jazz, Swing and Big Band • Developments in Instrumental Jazz from 1910 to the present day • Religious Music of the Baroque Period • Programme Music 1820–1910 • Innovations in Music from 1900 to the present day • Music for Stage and Screen in the Twentieth Century