A-Level Music
A Level Music
This A level is designed to promote integration between the skills of performing, composing and appraising.
The course gives you the opportunity to work to your particular interests and strengths. You
need to have an interest in, and a willingness to explore, music of all kinds, ranging from Western classical to music from many different world cultures and contemporary pop styles. The ability to play an instrument or to sing to Grade 6 Associated Board standard is necessary in order to complete the performance part of the syllabus. There is not a requirement to have passed a GCSE Music to embark upon this course; however, it is recommended that students should have studied to at least Grade 5 Theory or GCSE Music in order to access the theoretical aspects of the course.
Assessment Information
EDUQAS A Level Specification
Recital 30% AS Level
Minimum of 6 minutes and two contrasting pieces. Choice of:
• solo piece(s) on one or more than one instrument or voice
• ensemble performance
• accompanying
• realisation using music technology
Compositions 30% AS Level with a combined duration of around four minutes
• One to a brief set by WJEC
• One to a brief written by the learner
Listening and appraising 40% AS Level
• Analysing and evaluating music
• Familiar and unfamiliar pieces
• Prescribed works
• Questions based on aural extracts
Areas of Study
• Instrumental Music of Haydn or Mendelson
• Popular Song and Musical Theatre
• Developments in Instrumental Jazz 1910 to the present day
• Innovations in Music 1900 to the present day
In essence, there are all sorts of topics for all sorts of musicians – the range of topics will allow
for practical and musical teaching and allow for differentiation to cater for all of the different musicians we find in our classroom.