Music

A-Level Music is a really challenging course but also an enormously rewarding one. Studying A-Level Music provides students with the opportunity to really understand how music works both by making it and by analysing it.

GCSE Entrance Requirements:

Two of the following three

  • GCSE Music Grade 5

  • ABRSM Grade 5 level on instrument or voice

  • Knowledge of basic music theory (equivalent to ABRSM Grade 3)

More info:

Combines Well With

Head of Department:

Mr M Evans - mevans01@hswv.co.uk

WHAT YOU STUDY

The two-year course is 60% practical and a 40% written examination. In Year 12 you will learn to compose music in the style of Haydn and other classical composers supported by a detailed analysis of how this musical language works. You will select repertoire to perform with the guidance of your teacher and hone your skills as a live musician. In Year 13 you will develop your skills when responding to a set brief composition as well as completing your free composition, writing music in any style of your choice. You will study the classical and romantic symphony, music of the early twentieth century and rock and pop repertoire by various groups and bands from the 1960s through to the 2000s. In the exam, your knowledge will be tested through listening exercises, a range of analytical questions and an essay.

The composing and performing parts of the course can be weighted to play to your individual strengths with one worth 25% and one 35%. You will be expected to play about 10 minutes’ worth of music for your final performance. The level of difficulty expected for this performance is about grade 6 equivalent. At the end of the A-Level course, you will submit a portfolio of two or three compositions.

The remaining 40% of the course involves studying music in three main areas. You will be expected to complete listening exercises, analysis and write short essays to demonstrate your knowledge.

HOW YOU STUDY

Students are well prepared for the written examination units; core skills and success criteria are embedded into lessons, allowing students to build and develop exam confidence throughout the duration of their course.

For the practical components, both Highfields staff and colleagues from the Wolverhampton Music Service will support students to develop throughout the course.

For all units of study students can expect an amount of set reading and extracurricular practice. Students are also expected to engage in some manner to support performances across the school, which is an essential part of developing skills and confidence in front of an audience.

DEPARTMENT STRENGTHS AND RESOURCES

A-Level Music is delivered entirely by subject specialists with many years of experience teaching the subject. Past students have achieved incredibly well and it is common for our Music students to continue their education in this field at university. It is also a great source of pride for the department that many A-Level musicians perform in our school events such as the Christmas Concert and annual school productions.

We can offer 3 dedicated rooms for practical lessons and 2 music classrooms.

PROGRESSION TO UNIVERSITY/CAREERS

The possibilities are endless. Music will enable you to demonstrate many skills which employers, colleges and universities will be looking for. It can also give you opportunities to travel, meet people and get the most out of life.  In a recent national survey, music teachers were asked to give details of the next steps of former students. It was not a surprise to hear that many had continued to study Music at Music College, or universities including Cambridge, Derby, Durham, Huddersfield, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Oxford, Sheffield, Surrey and York. Others had gone on to various universities (including Russell Group) to read Acting, Art, Arts Journalism, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Classics, Computer Science for example.