Music

 

                                                          

 

                                               

 

                

 

The A Level Music course at CSG is challenging and rewarding. The students who choose it are committed to their musical studies and with our excellent facilities, our partnerships, and the numerous high-level performing ensembles, students often say that it is one of their most enjoyable A Levels. 

The aim of this course is to develop your abilities as an intelligent musician. It is structured around 3 units each year which are linked together by four Areas of Study.

A LEVEL

UNIT 1

Performing (externally assessed via recording) 30%

This takes the form of a minimum 8 minute recital, either as a soloist, ensemble player, or accompanist. You will present one or more pieces.

UNIT 2

Composing (externally assessed coursework) 30%

This takes the form of two compositions. Composition 1 is written to a brief set by the exam board. Composition 2 is a free composition in any musical style. Total time across both compositions must be a minimum of 4 minutes.

UNIT 3

Listening & Appraising (exam paper) 40%

Application of knowledge through the context of six areas of study, each with two set works, with the exception of Popular Music and Jazz, which has three set works.

• Vocal Music,
• Instrumental Music,
• Music for Film,
• Popular Music and Jazz,
• Fusions,
• New Directions,
• Application of knowledge to unfamiliar works.

The areas of study are: Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusions, New Directions.

This paper comprises two sections: A and B.

Section A: Areas of study short listening questions and dictation (50 marks)
Section B: Extended written response

• Two essay questions – essay one (20 marks) and essay two (30 marks)
• Essay one asks students to draw links from their study of the set works to the music heard as an unfamiliar extract.
• Essay two gives a choice of four questions that ask students to evaluate the musical elements, context and language of one set work. Each option will be from a different area of study.

Entry Requirements: As stated in the Admission Policy

Special Requirements: In terms of performing, students should be at least Associated Board Grade 5 standard or equivalent at the start of the course. They should also have a grade 6 or above in GCSE Music (or grade 5 music theory) and be fluent in reading staff notation.

Exam Board: OCR