Music


Exam Board

Additional Entry Requirements

5 in Mathematics required
6 in English Language required
6 in Music required
Grade 5 instrument or singing required
Grade 5 music theory required
 

Course Content

Why music?
 
A level music will give you the opportunity to explore a fascinating practical, creative and academic subject. You will learn to perform, compose and appreciate different types of music, developing critical and creative thinking, cultural and aesthetic awareness, and the ability to make music individually and as part of a group.
 
Many Woodhouse students have gone on to study music or a closely related degree course at Conservatoires, Oxbridge, Russell Group and other universities.A good degree in music will give you the necessary grounding to thrive in a highly competitive profession with many different career paths.The three-waytransferable skills (practical, creative, academic) also make this adesirable subject for those who intend to study other subjects at university.There are many opportunities to perform in concerts, both on and off campus, learn how to use modern notation software, and to take part in extra-mural music activities including choir and a range of ensembles.
 
Course content
 
You’ll learn to perform music at Grade 7 level with control and continuity, using appropriate tempi, and show critical understanding of the music chosen.You’ll study the processes involved in creating music, and develop the technical and expressive skills needed by a composer.You’ll be encouraged to explore a range of compositional starting points and investigate a variety of techniques for developing and manipulating ideas.You will then turn these ideas into completed pieces of music.You will engage critically with music, develop an understanding of its place in different cultures and contexts, and learn how to analyse and evaluate music in aural and written form.
 
 
Mark scheme
 
Externally assessed (visiting examiner) - 35% OR 25%
 
Performing
  • Option A: Performance 10-12mins - 108 marks
  • Option B: Performance 6-8mins - 72 marks
 
Externally assessed - 25% OR 35%
 
Composing
Option A: 2 compositions with a total duration of 4-6mins - 72 marks
Option B: 3 compositions with a total duration of 8-10mins - 108 marks
 
Written exam - 2 hours 15 mins - 40%
 
Appraising - 100 marks
 
JULIA
Whitmore High School
 
“I really enjoy the sense of freedom we have in our music lessons. We get to choose which area of music we want to focus our studies on, such as rock, pop, classical, jazz… As composers and musicians, it is important to find your own sense of style. Instead of being pushed in one direction, we are encouraged by our music teachers to develop our own ideas and shape our musical identity.
 
I chose to study music A level because it’s my way of expressing myself. At the age of six I started to learn piano, and then later violin and guitar. Ever since I’ve wanted to become a piano teacher. During my teenage years I’ve also became very interested in psychology and discovered music therapy and hope to combine them as a profession. I am going to study piano in conservatoire next year and received lots of support from the music department, especially during the stressful auditions.
 
I came to Woodhouse because I wanted a fresh start. I wanted to challenge myself in an unfamiliar yet friendly environment where independence is encouraged. The staff provide a great support system and the teachers treat you with respect - like adults. It’s a great transition to university. There are also events and activities that my secondary school didn’t have such as pyjama day or culture day so it is easy to socialise. I have made lots of friends here. ”
 


My Woodhouse
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