A Level Music

Component 1 – Performing

• Option A (Performing-focused): 10–12 min recital, at least 3 pieces (solo/ensemble), 35% of total.
• Option B (Balanced): 6–8 min recital, 2 pieces, 25%.

Component 2 – Composing

• Option A: two pieces (one to a brief in Western Classical style, one free), 25% of qualification.
• Option B: three pieces (one Western brief, one linked to another area of study, one free), 35%.

Component 3 – Appraising Written exam (2 hr 15 min), 40% total.

• Section A: detailed study of the Western Classical Tradition (Haydn 104 or Mendelssohn 4).
• Sections B & C: choice of one popular area (Rock/Pop, Musical Theatre, Jazz) and one modern Classical area (Twentieth or Twenty first Century), with broader listening/appraisal questions including unprepared extracts and comparisons. We study Musical Theatre and Twentieth Century music.

1. Choose your Option (A or B) depending on whether you prefer performance or composition focus.

2. Start listening:

• Familiarise with symphonies (Haydn 104 or Mendelssohn 4)
• Explore set works (Debussy, Poulenc) and your chosen areas.

3. Develop performance repertoire, aiming for high-quality recordings/performances by Spring Year 13.

4. Practice composing: o Learn formal briefs; try composing in classical and popular styles. Keep logs and record drafts.

5. Improve appraising skills: Do regular aural practice with unfamiliar extracts.

6. Work on terminology, comparison techniques, essay writing.

Component 1 - Visiting examiner assesses live performances.

Component 2 and 3c- Externally assessed