Music
“Your ears will always lead you correctly, but you must know why.” – Anton Webern (1883–1945)
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Grade 6 in GCSE Music
Subject Leader: Mr J Emery
Examination Board: AQA
A-Level Syllabus: 9MU0
Examinations: 40%
Coursework: 60%
Performing – 35%
Composing 25%
What is A-Level Music?
A-Level Music involves studying music at a deeper level. It consists of three elements: Performance, Composition, and Appraising. You will plan and perform a 10-minute recital on your chosen instrument, write your own compositions, learn how to write in the styles of other composers, and study several key pieces of music in diverse styles and from a wide historical period. The listening exam will have a focus on the Western Classical Tradition, alongside Pop Music and another area of s;tudy of your choice, from a given selection including Jazz, Film Music and Music for Theatre.
What makes a good musician?
A keen and open ear is required if you are to get the most out of A-Level Music; a willingness to listen to music that may be alien to you; an urge to analyse a variety of music and use this creatively for your own compositions; and most importantly, to avail yourself of every playing opportunity in and out of school. It is recommended that those students embarking on this course have achieved at least Grade 5 or equivalent on their instrument and have a good understanding of music theory up to and including Grade 5 content.
What can I expect to learn in Music?
The set works are in a variety of styles and from a range of different periods in music history. The study of these pieces will inform and nurture you as both composer and performer. The course is essentially creative, develops analytical skills, demands excellent time-management skills, requires dedication to practising an instrument, and fosters talent.
Where could Music take me?
The school has many high-level extra-curricular ensembles through which to further your performing experience. These include Chamber Choir, Concert Band, Swing band, String Ensemble, Brass Group, and various smaller ensembles. There are at least two concerts per term including a two-week Music Festival, where the coveted prize of Musician of the Year is awarded. Music naturally combines well with any other selection of A Levels, regardless of your intended focus for post-18 study or employment. Many past students have gone on to read Music or Popular Music at university or music college, whilst others have left to study Medicine, Law and other seemingly unrelated degrees. An A Level in music demands a wide variety of transferable skills, all of which universities and employers regard very highly. The academic excellence, vast extra-curricular programme and varied musical life at The Bishop’s Stortford High School ideally prepares students for these exciting options.
