Eduqas A Level Music
The word “music” covers a huge range of different styles and genres, and each one of us has our own preferences and interests. The Eduqas A level specification recognises this through the varied areas of study and the choice of routes through the course.
Course Content
What sort of work will you be doing?
A Level Music covers a range of musical styles, including Jazz, Musical Theatre, Rock, Pop and Classical. You will compose music using software such as Note Flight, Musecore and Soundtrap. Most of your instrumental practice will be done independently, but you will also take part in regular instrumental lesson and instrumental performances.
How will you be assessed?
Performing:
You may choose to specialise in Performance. All performances are assessed by a visiting examiner after March in the year of the A Level exam. If you opt for Performance (Option A), this unit carries a weighting of 35%.
Composition:
You may choose to specialise in Composition (Option B), which can be weighted at 35%. Alternatively, if you choose to major in Performance (Option A), the Composition unit can be weighted at 25%.
For Option B (Composition), you will be required to compose three pieces with a total duration of 8 – 10 minutes. If you take Performance as your minor (Option A, 25%), your three compositions should total 4 – 6 minutes. You are also expected to maintain a log of your work, although this will not be formally assessed.
Appraising:
This component is assessed through a written exam lasting 2 hours and 15 minutes. It carries a weighting of 40%.
What is the course about?
A Level Music allows you to deepen your understanding of music, develop your own creative ideas, and demonstrate technical, interpretative and communication skills through performance. It builds on the knowledge and abilities you gained in GCSE Music and from musical experiences beyond the classroom. You also have the opportunity to specialise in either Composition or Performance..
Career and Progression Pathways:
Students who complete A Level Music go on to a wide variety of careers, both inside and outside the music industry. Some choose fields such as engineering, English or law, while others pursue music-related opportunities in areas like drama, film, journalism, administration, publishing and broadcasting. Those with a strong musical focus may also work in recording technology, music therapy, or in more traditional music roles such as performing, teaching, composing, arranging and editing.