Music AS/A Level

Music AS and A Level (OCR Board) offer exciting opportunities for the study of music through both practical and academic disciplines. The three core elements of Performance, Composition and Historical Studies are taught and assessed in each of the two years of the course. It is expected that you will have taken GCSE Music and achieved A or B grade, and/or have passed the Associated Board Grade 5 theory exam (exceptions to this are at the Director of Music's discretion). Students must be proficient on at least one instrument (or voice) and have a firm grasp of conventional musical notation (treble and bass clefs), key signatures (up to 4 sharp/flats). Some facility on the piano is highly desirable.

Performance is assessed formally for the course each year by a visiting examiner. The minimum standard required is around Associated Board Grade 5 for the AS and Grade 6 for A Level (preferably around 6/7 and 7/8+ respectively). Candidates are now able to offer improvisation for assessment. It is expected that you will be having individual lessons on your main instrument, which will usually take place outside of College. Students will have opportunities to take part in group and solo performance in class and recital evenings, which help to build confidence and develop performance (and compositional) skills.

Composition involves both stylistic musical techniques (harmony) and original writing. Assessment is by a coursework portfolio submitted after the first two terms of each year. Compositions are required to be fully notated, and submitted with a recording and detailed commentary. Options for this module include an arrangement of a jazz or pop standard and music to accompany a DVD clip. Students are encouraged to make use of the department's music technology facilities for both recording and composition (see website for details).

The Historical Studies units have a written examination at the end of each year, and involve the study of pioneers in Classical Orchestral music (c1750-c1830) and early Jazz in the AS year. The second year offers insights into twentieth-century compositional techniques and provides an opportunity to study a particular topic in some depth, such as 'Music for Screen' or 'Post 1945 Popular Music'. Again a clear understanding of the principles of musical notation and analysis is essential.

In addition to their work in class there will be numerous opportunities for music students to expand their musical horizons through extra-curricular activities, including College productions, concert trips, foreign tours and other performances. In recent years musicians at the College have performed at The Henley Festival and Edinburgh International Festival Fringe. The department's practice facilities can be made available to all students, although only music and music technology students have access to dedicated workstations and studio facilities outside of lectures.

Please contact Dr David Golby, Director of Music, or take a look at the Music pages on the College website if you require further information.