Music
Content
The Eduqas specification is designed to allow students to pursue their own musical interests. Students develop skills in the three distinct but related disciplines of performing, composing and appraising, whilst having flexibility to specialise in either performing or composing. Students may choose to apportion 10% of their assessment to either performing or composing as an in-depth study. Students will engage with both Classical and Popular music and will explore the musical language and techniques within these areas.
Special Features
The music department has a computer suite with BandLab, Musescore and Cubase music. All the computers have midi keyboards attached and mixers to allow you to record live parts. The department has 6 practise rooms available for use during the school day and after school. We have visiting peripatetic teachers each week teaching on a variety of instruments. There is also the opportunity to get involved in many different musical ensembles and concerts.
Entry Requirements
Please refer to The John of Gaunt entry requirements.
Attendance
This is a two-year A Level course.
Assessment
By following this link, you can see the specifications on the exam board website:
https://www.eduqas.co.uk/media/bwjls2p4/eduqas-a-level-music-spec-from-2016-d.pdf
Module Title | Mode of Assessment | Brief Outline of Module |
Performing | Externally assessed by a visiting Examiner |
Students must choose either Option A in both Components and 2 or Option B in both Components 1 and 2. Option A (35%): Perform 3 pieces of music lasting 10–12 minutes. 2 of the pieces must represent 2 different areas of study. Option B (25%): Perform 2 pieces of music lasting 6–8 minutes. 1 of the pieces must represent 1 of the areas of study. |
Composing | Non-exam assessment: externally |
Students must choose either Option A in both Components 1 and 2 or Option B in both Components 1 and 2. Option A (25%): Compose 2 pieces of music lasting between 4 6 minutes (1 of which will be in response to a Western Classical brief set by the exam board) or Option B (35%): Compose 3 pieces of music lasting between 10 minutes (1 of which will be in response to a Western Classical brief set by the exam board) |
Appraising | External |
Written examination: 2 hours 15 minutes (approximately) 40% of qualification. This examination will assess knowledge and understanding of music through three areas of study:
Students will answer questions on unheard pieces of music and set works. |
Moving On
Music is highly regarded by universities. The A Level Music course provides students the opportunity to develop many skills suitable for further study at degree level. Many students go on to study music at university or at a conservatoire. A Level Music provides a great foundation for many different careers. Music will enable you to demonstrate many skills which employers will be looking for. It can also give you opportunities to travel, meet people and get the most out of life. Many students who have studied A Level Music have gone on to careers in performing, composing, conducting, teaching, publishing, arts management and working in the media.