Sixth Form Handbook 2022-24

MUSIC

Course content and structure/ Assessment overview The Edexcel A-Level Music course follows a traditional tripartite structure: Performing, Composing and Appraising. Component 1 (30%) - Performing Candidates produce a public performance of one or more pieces lasting a minimum of eight minutes. The performance can be playing or singing solo, in an ensemble, improvising, or realising music using music technology. Pupils are required to demonstrate control, continuity and fluency in their recitals, which are recorded and submitted for external marking. To access the top marks, performances should be at Grade 8 standard by the end of the course. Component 2 (30%) - Composing Candidates produce two compositions: one to a brief set by Edexcel and one either free composition or also to a brief. The compositions must last a minimum of six minutes in total. One composition must be from a list of briefs assessing stylistic compositional technique; IPS pupils will be expected to complete four-part chorales in the style of JS Bach. Compositions will be recorded and submitted for external marking. Component 3 (40%) - Appraising Candidates take a two-hour written examination which assesses knowledge and understanding of

musical elements, contexts and language. Pupils will study set works from six areas of study: Vocal Music; Instrumental Music; Music for Film; Popular Music and Jazz; Fusions; and New Directions. There is enormous breadth to the works studied and candidates will complete the course having received a thorough grounding in a range of musical styles, having developed a critical ear, and having developed the ability to apply their understanding to unfamiliar works of any genre.

University and careers links A-Level Music is an academic qualification held in high esteem by universities and employers. One would be ill-informed to assume that the qualification is only of interest to those intending to further their study in Music or the Performing Arts in higher education. A-Level Music, through its focus on logical, methodical analysis and extended appraisals of historical and cultural context, bridges the gap between humanities and sciences and is highly-regarded by universities for this reason. Possible career links include performing in classical and/or popular fields, the media, sound engineering and production, music publishing, music editing, reviewing, education, business and administration, acoustics, composing for film and television and the music industry in general.

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