MUSIC

LEVEL 3: A LEVEL
EXAMINING BOARD: EDUCAS

According to the World Economic Forum, creativity is one of the most in-demand skills desired by employers so Music will benefit you across a range of careers.

This course is aimed at musicians who want to increase their theoretical and academic knowledge of music.

It is well suited for those who already read music, play an instrument or sing. Your understanding of music will be stretched and the course complements many other subjects.

We have a variety of Music EnRICH groups you can join and you will have the chance to go on trips to see world-class concerts and performances.

You will be taught in our Aspen Music Centre which was purpose-built for the teaching of Music and features state-of-the-art recording and technology equipment.

AS Level Music is available as an additional qualification to a Study Programme.
 

There are three units:

  • Performing
  • Composing
  • Understanding.

You will study set works and music theory, develop listening and composition skills, and have frequent performance opportunities.

As a minimum, you will need (or equivalent to):

  • GCSE Mathematics grade 4
  • GCSE English Language grade 4
  • plus three more GCSEs at grade 4

It is recommended (within the above) you have one of the following:

  • GCSE Music grade 5 or above
  • ability to read music and play an instrument/sing at approximately grade 5 standard

It is expected that you will be involved in some Music EnRICH activities.

The course is assessed by coursework (worth 60% of your grade) and an exam (worth 40%).

The first part of your coursework is a solo performance (30%). The second part is composition portfolio (30%),.

For the exam you will answer listening and essay questions on three areas of study; Western Classical Tradition, Rock & Pop 1960-2000 and Into the 20th Century.

 

Possible careers include:

  • Performer
  • Composer
  • Teacher
  • Therapist
  • Journalist
  • Administrator
  • Sound Engineer.

Former students have gone on to top music colleges and universities (including Oxford), military music schools, and to work in teaching, performing and other roles in the music industry.

What if I don’t read music?

There are online courses that can increase your theory skills before starting Huish or you may be better suited to one of our Vocational Music courses.

If I haven’t taken GCSE Music, can I still take this course?

Although GCSE Music is a helpful foundation it’s not vital.