Music A Level - Level 3
Overview
Important
We are planning to run this new A Level in Music course from September 2020 and it will focus on one of two pathways. These are either the music technology pathway or the music performance pathway (further details can be found below). After submitting your application, you will be invited to ‘meet the tutor’. Here you will be asked which pathway you would prefer. The pathway with the most interest between now and September will be the one which is delivered. If you require further information, please contact daniel.woodward@wnc.ac.uk.
This qualification supports you to form personal and meaningful relationships with music. You will develop an understanding of the historical and cultural context of music.
Music technology pathway
You will learn about music recording, technology-based composition, listening, analysing and producing. You’ll be encouraged to engage with a wide range of music technology techniques in the creation and production of music.
Music performance pathway
You will learn about the development of musical knowledge, understanding and skills whilst learning about performing, composing and appraising music. You will be encouraged to engage critically and creatively with a wide range of music and musical contexts and learn to reflect on how music is used in the expression of personal and collective identities.
Recommended courses to study along with this
Meet the tutors
Get to know to know the staff from our music department before you join us.
Entry requirements
Five GCSEs with at least grade 4/C including English language and maths. GCSE Music (or equivalent) is desireable but not essential. Instrumental/vocal skills to be demonstrated via an audition.
You will need to supply a written reference from your school/college teacher and/or a current school or college report with an indication of your attendance pattern and achievements. This will need to be uploaded to your myVISION account by the end of May.
Following your application you will normally be offered a place to study A Levels subject to achieving the entry requirements and attending a welcome taster. You will also be required to undertake an audition on your chosen instrument.
How long is the course?
2 years.
How will I be assessed?
Music technology pathway
Approximately 40% of the programme is externally assessed coursework, with the remaining 60% being assessed through the means of both written and practical listening examinations.
Music performance pathway
60% of the programme is externally assessed coursework, with 40% being assessed through means of a written examination.
What will I study?
Music technology pathway
You will learn recording and production techniques, music listening and analysis and technology-based composition.
Music performance pathway
You will learn about solo and ensemble live performance as well as composition and music listening and appraisal skills.
Study programmes
It is an entry requirement for some courses to have gained GCSEs A*-C in English and maths (see entry requirements). If the entry requirements to a course do not require A*-C in these subjects, and you haven’t already gained GCSEs A*-C in English and maths before joining us, you will continue to study English and maths as part of your programme and take appropriate qualifications in these subjects with the aim of achieving A* to C grade. In addition, to help you gain essential skills for employment, every student aged under 19 and studying a full-time course at college will take part in our study programmes alongside their main subject qualification. Find out more.
What else can I do?
Further study at university-level or employment (musician, composer, arts administrator, live events coordinator).
What can I go on to study?
The qualification will allow you to develop particular strengths and interests, encourage lifelong learning and provide access to Higher Education and university degree courses in music-related careers.
Careers