Full Time AS/A2 Music

Music AS/A2

Entry Requirements
Students will need to have Grade 5 theory or equivalent and Grade 5 practical in one or more instruments including voice. A short audition and written exam will be necessary before acceptance onto the course. It is important that you have an instrumental lesson each week with a recognised teacher.

Course content
AS: Year 1
Unit 1: Performing Music
This unit gives students the opportunity to perform as soloists and as part of an ensemble. You can perform music in any style, for any instrument or voice and part of a five-six minute assessed performance. The expected standard is Grade 5.
Unit 2: Composing
This unit encourages students to develop their composition skills leading to the creation of a three minute track in response to a chosen brief. You will also write a CD sleeve note to describe aspects of your final composition.
Unit 3: Developing Musical Understanding
This unit focuses on listening to familiar music and understanding how it works. Set works will be listened to and studied. An appreciation of all musical styles is essential.
A2: Year 2
Unit 4: Extended Performance
This unit gives students with opportunities to extend their performance skills as soloists and/or as part of an ensemble. Teachers and students can choose music in any style. Any instrument(s) and/or voice(s) are acceptable as part of a 12-15 minute assessed performance of a balanced programme of music. Notated and/ or improvised performances may be submitted.
Unit 5: Composition and Technical Study *Unit code 6MU05
The composition section develops students composition skills, leading to the creation of a final three minute piece in response to a chosen brief. The technical study section builds on the knowledge and awareness of harmony through the medium of pastiche studies.
Unit 6: Further Musical Understanding *Unit code 6MU06
This unit focuses on listening to music, familiar and unfamiliar, and understanding how it works. Set works from the anthology provide the focus for much of the unit. It is recommended that students familiarise themselves with each work as a whole, before concentrating on important musical features, context and/or elements of continuity and change. Students will also listen to a wide range of unfamiliar music which relates to the two compulsory areas of study.

How Will I Be Assessed?
Performance during the course will be marked internally and then moderated by an external examiner. All other work is externally marked.

What Could I Do Next?
Music is available at degree level at most universities and, of course, Music colleges. Professional work is diverse but includes performing, teaching, management, TV, radio and record production.