Teachers of Music
- Mr L Ali
- Miss P Cantwell (Curriculum Leader)
- Mr M McKenna
Reasons to Study Music
The Music A Level course develops practical skills in performing and composing alongside a deeper understanding of the history, theory and analytical side of music. An appreciation for and knowledge of how and why popular and classical music was written will be explored and developed along with the opportunity to listen and study a wide variety of music.
Our Vision for Music
Students at SJB study music to develop a lifelong enjoyment and appreciation of music. We nurture the innate musical potential of all pupils by creating, performing and appraising music both in the classroom and through the diverse extra-curricular programme. This helps to develop students’ understanding and appreciation of different cultures.
Career Paths
- Performing
- Composing
- Arts Admin
- Teaching
- Music therapy
- Academia
- Conducting
- Any graduate scheme
View Subject Video
Key Stage 5
Qualification: A Level
Exam Board: Edquas
Coursework: 60%
Exam: 40%.
Exam Structure: 1 listening exam of 2 hours 15 minutes
Link to specification: WJEC Eduqas GCE A LEVEL in MUSIC
Course Overview:
Component 1: Performing 35% (Coursework)
A performance of a minimum of three pieces. At least one of these pieces must be as a soloist. The other pieces may be either as a soloist or as part of an ensemble or a combination of both.
One piece must reflect the musical characteristics of one area of study. At least one other piece must reflect the musical characteristics of one other, different area of study.
Component 2: Composing 25% (Coursework)
Two compositions:
- Must reflect the musical techniques and conventions associated with the Western Classical Tradition and be in response to a brief set by WJEC. Learners will have a choice of four set briefs, released during the first week of September in the academic year in which the assessment is to be taken.
- Free composition.
Component 3: Appraising
The appraising exam is approximately 2 hours 15 minutes and includes a variety of genres to study. An interest and open-minded approach to all styles of music is necessary.
- Area of study A: The Western Classical Tradition (The Development of the Symphony 1750-1900) including two set works.
- Symphony No. 104 in D major, ‘London’: Haydn
- Symphony No. 4 in A major, ‘Italian’: Mendelssohn
- Area of study D: Jazz
- 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
