Music

A-Level

Examination Board: Eduqas

Specification: 9MU0

Course Leader: Mr N Reynolds

Contact Email: nreynolds@tgschool.net

I find Music a really enjoyable subject. The music department is a wonderful environment where you can be yourself with out a fear of being judged. My favourite part of our course is the performing side. I love the feeling of performing and knowing something I have worked really hard on has paid off.   Kayleigh Y12

Are you interested in:

  • Performing music?

  • Composing and creating?

  • Listening and analysing?

  • Music technology?

What Will I Study?

A-Level Music is a subject rich in transferable skills, making it highly valued by both universities and employers. In this course, students will develop their creativity and technical ability through composing, performing, and analysing music, deepening their understanding of how music works across different styles and genres. A wide range of performance opportunities are available to suit all interests and skill levels.

Area of study A: The Western Classical Tradition (The Development of the Symphony 1750-1900) which includes two set works. Choose one set work for detailed analysis and the other for general study.

• Symphony No. 104 in D major, 'London': Haydn

• Symphony No. 4 in A major, 'Italian': Mendelssohn

A choice of one area of study from:

Area of study B: Rock and Pop

Area of study C: Musical Theatre

Area of study D: Jazz

A choice of one area of study from:

Area of study E: Into the Twentieth Century including two set works:

•             Trio for Oboe, Bassoon and Piano, Movement II: Poulenc

•             Three Nocturnes, Number 1, Nuages: Debussy

Area of study F: Into the Twenty-first Century including two set works:

•             Asyla, Movement 3, Ecstasio: Thomas Adès

•             String Quartet No. 2 (Opus California) Movements 1 (Boardwalk) and 4 (Natural Bridges): Sally Beamish

Additional Entry Requirements:

Grade 5 or above in GCSE Music and approximately Grade 5 standard on their chosen instrument or voice.

Assessment:

Component 1: Performing

Option A: Total duration of performances: 10-12 minutes at 35% of qualification 

Option B: Total duration of performances: 6-8 minutes at 25% of qualification 

Component 2: Composition

Option A: Total duration of compositions: 4-6 minutes at 25% of qualification 

Option B: Total duration of compositions: 8-10 minutes at 35% of qualification

Component 3: Appraising 40% (Listening Exam)

Likely exam questions based on 'Areas of Studies'

Set work analysis with a score 

Extended responses on wider context 

Unprepared extracts of music with and without a score 

Comparison questions: This component includes a listening examination.  

Leading to futures in:

Students often go on to pursue roles in performance, composition, music production, sound engineering, and music education. The course also supports progression into specialist fields such as music therapy, arts management, music journalism, and music technology. Whether aiming for a career on stage, in the studio, or behind the scenes, A-Level Music provides a valuable stepping stone into the creative industries and beyond.

Department Staff

Mr N Reynolds (NRE) Head of Music