Music A Level

A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language. You must be able to play an instrument or sing to Grade 4 standard or higher. This does not mean you need to have taken any graded exams, but no graded exam results mean you will be required to audition. You must be able to understand standard music notation. Grade 5 theory is an advantage but not a requirement.

Our Music A Level course develops practical skills in performing and composing as well as a deeper understanding of music history, theory and analysis. Through listening to and studying a wide variety of music, both classical and popular, you will develop a more informed appreciation of how, and why, it was written.

Our engaging course is led by inspirational staff specialising in the subject, and you'll benefit from a dedicated teaching environment designed specifically for music study.

You will study the classical and romantic symphony, with a special focus on Haydn. You will also study the music of the early twentieth century as well as rock and pop repertoires by the likes of The Beatles, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder and Oasis. This knowledge will be tested in an exam through listening exercises, analytical questions, and an essay.

You will learn techniques of composition, both free composition and composition in a western classical style. You will have regular performing opportunities to prepare you for your final performance to a visiting examiner. Most importantly, you will learn the 'mechanics of music' which will help you to become a better musician.

• Performing - 25% performance to a visiting examiner
• Composing - 25% two 'original' compositions
• Specialism - 10% composition or performance
• Appraising - 40% based on a written exam at the end of the course.

Recent alumni have gone on to study at the UK's most prestigious conservatoires (including RNCM, RCM, Guildhall, LSM), universities (including Durham, Cambridge, Bristol, Manchester) and popular music institutes (BIMM, ICMP). Previous students have gained places in the National Youth Orchestra.

You can apply online via the APPLY button and then add an additional two or three subjects to make up your academic programme. You can also apply for a second, alternative vocational programme of study via a separate application. If after reading this factsheet, you are still undecided about the course most suitable for you, please drop into one of our open evenings, ring our Admissions Department on 01743 653111, or email admissions@scg.ac.uk