COURSES

Music
Overview
“Music expresses that which cannot be said and on
which it is impossible to be silent.”
Victor Hugo
“After silence, that which comes nearest to
expressing the inexpressible is music.”
Aldous Huxley
The merits of music as a means of expression have
long been recognised and the study of this subject
develops analytical and communicative skills that
are transferable to many other academic subjects.
Far more than just a practical pursuit, A level Music’s
broad programme provides intellectual and artistic
challenges through the study of styles ranging from
jazz to traditional western music, encouraging
musical development through performing,
composing and listening/appreciation.
Approach
This course is suitable both for candidates who wish
to proceed further in their study of music and for
those whose interest is recreational. It combines
elements of history, theory, analysis and practical
skills. Our various A level tutors allow for a wide
range of approaches with small class sizes and our
instrumental teachers assist with the performing
element of the course. You will make the most of
our facilities with opportunities to perform in our
Concert Hall and to compose using Sibelius
software on Apple Macs.
You will extend the skills, knowledge and
understanding needed to communicate through
music and to take part in making music, while
strengthening the links between performing,
composing and appraising.
You will also extend your appreciation of the diverse
heritage of music, promoting cultural development,
encouraging life-long learning and providing access
to both music-related and other careers.
This course develops a wide range of musical skills
and involves an in-depth study of a range of musical
styles. You are expected to learn to use a broad
technical, musical vocabulary for all three units of
the course. You will be required to perform to a good
standard, answer analytical essay-style questions
on prescribed works and demonstrate a detailed
knowledge of the repertoire you have studied.
Assessment is based upon a listening exam that
requires in-depth written responses, composing
coursework and technique exercises, and a
performance recital followed by questions from a
visiting examiner. The more you enjoy listening to
music of all styles outside the classroom, the more
it will benefit you.
Course outline
AS level is made up of three units, all of which relate
to two broad Areas of Study:
Tonality (The Language of Western Tonal Harmony
1600 -1900) and The Expressive Use of
Instrumental Techniques.
Unit 1: Performing (40%)
This consists of a two-part recital which is externally
assessed by a visiting examiner. You are expected to
give a short recital (about eight minutes long) on
your main instrument after which you discuss
aspects of your programme and performance with
the examiner. You then perform for another four
minutes on either your second instrument or in an
ensemble, or you may wish to perform your own
composition.
Unit 2: Composing (30%)
In this coursework unit, you study a range of
compositional styles that focus on Western Tonal
Harmony and compile a portfolio of six exercises
completed during the course; one further exercise
is completed under timed conditions. In addition,
you compose a three minute instrumental piece
or arrangement.
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Millfield Sixth Form Courses 2014-2015