Music Summary

A Level Music enables you to extend your knowledge and understanding of music and builds on much of the GCSE qualification. The qualification allows students to engage critically with some of the greatest composers who have ever lived across a variety of musical styles. Students must play an instrument or sing and will need to demonstrate a strong commitment to performance and advancement of their technical skills as performing is an integral part of the course. You will also develop and refine your composition skills developed in GCSE, study set musical works in detail and develop analysis skills that will enable you to access academic musical studies at degree level. A level music students should be open minded about studying a wide variety of music genres and must enjoy active listening to music in their free time.  

Entry Requirements

GCSE Music grade 6 or higher

Performing standard of Grade 5 equivalent  

Course Duration

2 years full-time 

Specification

OCR

How you will study

In addition to weekly 1-1 lessons on your chosen instrument/voice, you will study a wide range of pieces, styles and compositional techniques to broaden your musical horizons. You will also develop your compositional voice in weekly workshops, as well as develop your general musicianship and aural skills. 

Component breakdown

Performance Specialism: 

Recital: 10 minutes on three contrasting pieces (35%
Compositions – 4 minutes across two briefs – 25%)

Composition Specialism: 

Recital: 6 minutes on two contrasting pieces  (25%
Compositions – 8 minutes across two briefs and three technical exercises – 35%) 

Written Exam : Listening and Appraising (2hr 30 – 40%)

AoS1: Instrumental Music of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven 

Aos2: Popular Song: Blues, Jazz, Swing and Big Band 

AoS5: Programme Music 1820-1910 

AoS6: Innovations in Music 1900 to the present day  

  • Accompanist 
  • Arranger 
  • Arts Administrator 
  • Composer 
  • Conductor 
  • Cruise Ship Musician 
  • Instrumental Teacher 
  • Music Producer 
  • Music Journalist 
  • Orchestra Manager 
  • Pit Musician 
  • Recording Engineer 
  • Songwriter 
  • Sound Engineer