What are lessons like in this subject?

A-level Music lessons are centred around developing musical knowledge and skills by analysing and discussing a wide range of music from 1750 to 2000. Performance skills are very important as they can form 35% of this course so this is a regular feature, as is composition where skills are built quickly through focused exercises and individual teacher feedback. All in all, music lessons are very busy! We have a suite of practice rooms which can be used for private practice, instrumental and vocal teaching and developing composition ideas. In addition, we create compositions using a number of industry standard notation software packages and digital audio workstations. Student performances take place around college and within the local community. Trips to see professional concerts, musicals, and universities are arranged throughout the year. In addition, professional musicians and speakers regularly visit college to talk to our students.

What will I study?

The course also involves:
  • Performance (25% or 35%). You will give a solo performance of between eight to twelve minutes in front of a visiting examiner.
  • Composition (25% or 35%). You are required to create two compositions. One is a piece in the Western Classical tradition and the other is a free choice in any style.
  • Listening and appraising exam is worth 40%. You will study the Classical and Romantic symphony, music of the early twentieth century and pop/rock. Your knowledge will be tested through listening exercises, a range of analytical questions and an essay.

What our
students

say

I think that this course has really deepened my understanding of music to a new level. I thought I knew everything I could know, but it has widened the horizons and made me realise there is so much more to it. It has really strengthened my music theory knowledge, and I have then applied that to my music compositions; making them much better and thought out. It has opened my eyes to knew music styles, and allowed me to improve all three aspects to the course; appraising, composition, and performance.

Grace Emma Wyke - Darton Academy


Music

Please note: Subject videos have been filmed from colleges across our Trust.

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