Music
Examining Body: Eduqas
Entry Criteria: Minimum of five grade 4 GCSE passes; these must include at least Grade 4 in Maths and English Language. Additionally, this course requires Grade 5 in Music.
Eduqas A Level Music offers a broad and flexible course designed to deepen your skills as a musician through performing, composing, and appraising music. The course supports both academic understanding and practical musicianship, giving you the freedom to express your musical interests alongside studying established works. You will study the evolution of the symphony as part of the Western Classical Tradition, explore developments in classical music in the 20th century, and select an additional area of study from Rock & Pop, Jazz, or Musical Theatre. These studies will develop your analytical, historical, and listening skills while underpinning your own creative work.
Component 1: Performing (35% or 25%) You can choose to major in performance (35% of A Level or take it as a minor (25%)
- Major: 10-12 minutes of performance
- Minor: 6-8 minutes of performance
Performances can be in any style of your choice, on any instrument or voice, either solo or part if an ensemble.
Component 2: Composing (35% or 25%) Similarly, students can choose to major in composition (35%) or take it as a minor (25%)
- Major: 8-10 minutes of composition
- Minor: 4-6 minutes of composition
One composition must be in response to a set brief; the other can be entirely free choice.
Component 3: Appraising (40%) Assessed by a written examination at the end of Year 13, this component develops your skills in musical analysis, critical listening, and essay writing.
Areas of study include:
- The Development of the Symphony (1750–1900)
- Developments in Classical Music of the 20th Century
- One further option: Rock & Pop, Jazz, or Musical Theatre
Why Choose This Course?
A Level Music is ideal for students who wish to pursue music further, either as a performer, composer, or academic. It complements a range of subjects, develops transferable skills like creativity, analysis, and confidence, and can lead to university study in music or related fields, as well as conservatoire training or music industry careers.