Music

This course follows the AQA syllabus.

The course is designed primarily for students who wish to follow a career in music perhaps as a performer, composer, recorder and arranger of music or a teacher. Students who do not wish to follow a career in music but who enjoy the subject will find this an ideal course to supplement their studies in other areas.

During the course students are expected to take advantage of the many and varied extra-curricular activities at the college to supplement their studies. They are also actively encouraged to initiate their own ensembles and to organise recitals.

In the first year of the course (AS Examination) there are 3 units -

Unit 1 - Understanding Music

• Exploring Musical Language
• Change and Development in a Musical Genre, Style or Tradition

Unit 2 - Coursework - Composing

You have to complete two compositions. At least one of these should be stimulated by music studied in Unit 1. The use of music technology is actively encouraged.

Unit 3 - Coursework - Performing

You will perform a programme of ensemble music lasting between 5 and 10 minutes. This can be recorded at any time during the course. Additionally you have to prepare a performance of one of your compositions. This can be performed by others under your direction or by yourself, perhaps using music technology.

In the second year of the course (A2 Examination) there are 3 further units:

Unit 4 - Understanding Music

• Music of the 20th and 21st Centuries

Unit 5 - Coursework

• The Language and Context of Music

Unit 6 - Performing

You perform a programme of solo music lasting between 7 and 10 minutes. This is followed by a 'viva voce' session of 3 minutes in which you discuss your performance with the visiting examiner.