Edexcel A-Level

The course extends the GCSE skills of Performing, Composing and Appraising. It introduces students to a much more in-depth analysis of a wide variety of musical styles, ideas and traditions and develops their general musicianship.

 

AS LEVEL

Unit 1: (AS) Performing (30%)

A public performance requiring students to perform one or more pieces as a recital. The performance can be performed as an instrumental or vocal soloist, or as part of an ensemble, improvising, or realising music using music technology. The total performance time across all pieces must be a minimum of 6 minutes. Performances must be recorded after 1 March in the year of certification.

 

Unit 2: (AS) Composing (30%)

Students are required to compose a total of two compositions, one to a brief set by Pearson and one either free composition or also to a brief. Each composition must be at least 2 minutes in duration and the total time across both submissions must be a minimum of 4 minutes and 30 seconds. Each composition carries 50% of the marks available for this component.

 

Unit 3: (AS) Appraising (40%)

Students need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of musical elements, contexts and language through the content of six areas of study, each with two set works. There will be one written paper of 90 minutes in duration, worth a total of 80 marks.

 

A-LEVEL

Unit 4: Performing (30%)

A public performance requiring students to perform one or more pieces as a recital. The performance can be performed as an instrumental or vocal soloist, or as part of an ensemble, improvising, or realising music using music technology. The total performance time across all pieces must be a minimum of 8 minutes. Performances must be recorded after 1 March in the year of certification.

 

Unit 5: Composing (30%)

Students are required to compose a total of two compositions, one to a brief set by Pearson and one either free composition or also to a brief.

*Total time across both submissions must be a minimum of 6 minutes.

 

Unit 6: Appraising (40%)

Students need to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of musical elements, contexts and language through the content of six areas of study, each with three set works. There will be one written paper of 120 minutes in duration, worth a total of 100 marks.

 

AREAS OF STUDY

• Vocal Music
• Instrumental Music
• Music for Film
• Popular Music and Jazz
• Fusions
• New Directions

 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Grade 6 or higher at GCSE and a minimum of Grade 4 ABRSM practical ability or equivalent.

 

More details on this course can be found in our Sixth Form Course Guide.