Music GCE A Level

Music GCE A Level

Qualification: AS/A2 - 2 year course

Course type: Level 3 (advanced)

Entry requirements:
4 x GCSE B grade or grade 5 music theory and grade 5 on main instrument.

Head of Department: Miss Sophy Haes

Course assessment:
Performance is internally assessed and externally moderated. All other units are externally assessed.

What can this course offer me?
A department with high retention and pass rates. Many students have entered HE Music courses at all the major Music Colleges, many University courses and Teacher Training degrees.
Past KGV musicians have progressed to work with the BBC Philharmonic, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Northern Ballet, lecturing at Birmingham Conservatoire, running their own recording business, cruise liner entertainment, Glasgow Cathedral Master of the Choristers, choirmen at Leeds Parish Church and the Chapel Royal, working for EMI, producing music for BBC programmes, composing music for adverts, local teaching and organist posts from Hull to High Wycombe, from Holy Family and Litherland High to KGV.

What will I learn?
It is anticipated that there will be three double period lessons each week to cover AS Music which will comprise:

• Performance - recorded solos and/or ensembles at minimum Grade V standard (30%)
• Composition - one 3 minute piece (30%)
• Listening, Investigating Musical Styles, Chords & Lines (40%)

For A2 Music:

• Performance (30%)
• Composition and Technical Study (30%) - 2 tasks in all
• Further Musical Understanding (40%)

Practice space is available Some vocal/instrumental tuition is available Participation in some 3/4 College Concerts each year is required.

What Makes a good Music student?
For AS and A2 an A/B pass in GCSE Music and also Grade V theory. A piano/keyboard facility is essential (a minimum of Grade 3) with at least Grade 5 on your main instrument. A good ear is essential and willingness to perform in front of others is important.

Which other courses link well with this subject?
Arts subjects such as English and History. Modern Languages are invaluable for University Music and singers. Business Studies for arts administration. Maths and Physics for Music Technology related courses. Theatre Studies for Performing Arts Courses.

Future Opportunities

• Into the field of Performance - orchestras, opera companies
• Education - schools, instrumental teaching, lecturing
• Music Industry and the Media - recording and broadcasting companies
• Arts Administration, Library Work
• Performing Arts routes

Is there anything else I need to know?