Sixth Form Subject Choices 2021 - Flipbook - Page 52
Beths Grammar School
Music
Examination board:
Available Levels:
Minimum Entry Requirements:
Head of Department:
Eduqas (WJEC)
A Level
Grade 5 at GCSE in Music or Grade 5 ABRSM Practical and Theory
Ms K Marriott
What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?
In order to study Music at A Level, a good grade at Music GCSE is essential, as is a sound performance
background. Passes in Associated Board, Guildhall or Trinity College of Music Examinations at Grade 5 or
above will help you secure good results in the performance units at both AS and A Level. Experience of
performing with others in groups is also helpful. The wider your listening experience the better, as this will
ensure that you have aural knowledge of the range of genres of music that is required at this Level.
What will I learn on this course?
AS and A Level music courses offer you opportunities to extend your performance skills. Practice in the
development of musical techniques of composition in a wide range of styles and genres are an integral part
of the course, as is the development of listening and other aural skills. The course is a well-balanced and
accessible course of study in Music which will enable you to develop skills, challenge and extend them.
What kind of student is this course suitable for?
Any student prepared to study and apply him or herself diligently is capable of securing a satisfactory grade
in Music at A Level. Music demands the same requirements of rigour and application as any other subject,
but it also has its own technical requirements of vocabulary and skills, and students who do well are those
who are prepared to recognise these essential requirements.
What kind of work will I need to do outside lessons?
You should read about and listen to as wide a range of music as possible. Study of music beyond that
specified in the course is a prerequisite for achieving a good grade. Knowledge and experience of music
from a wide range of genres and periods will equip you with the background necessary for a fuller
understanding of music and the skills and experience to answer the questions which are set as part of the
Listening and Appraising and the Aural examinations. You must not forget that time for practice and regular
lessons must be built into your work schedule.
Demands of the Performance unit of the course can only be met if you practice regularly. Financial
support could potentially be available for students who meet the criteria, for this element of the course.
What could I go on to do at the end of my course?
The choice of Music as a subject for study is looked upon favourably by higher education establishments, as
it demonstrates in students a willingness to engage in cultural activities. This shows that the student has
interests beyond that which are purely utilitarian.
There are many different types of degrees one can study relating to music, above traditional performance,
such as, recording and studio work, music law, radio and television, music critic, film, health related
industries and business studies in music. For those wishing to teach, opportunities exist to pursue joint
degree courses in Music and another subject e.g. Mathematics.
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Sixth Form Prospectus