Music

A Level Music - Subject Code: 8502 / 9501

Music is divided into the following 6 units:

AS Modules

Solo Performance – 30%

1-2 solo pieces, 5-6 minutes.
Performing during the course - 4 pieces

3 of these 6 pieces are recorded and sent to Edexcel for assessment. Approximate standard required is the equivalent of grade 5 but students who perform higher will gain extra credit. All styles and instruments including voice are acceptable with prior agreement from Edexcel.

Composition – 30%

1 x 3 minute composition from a chosen category.
2 compositional techniques completed within 4 weeks as a coursework activity.

A score and recording of each will be sent to Edexcel for assessment.

Listening Paper - Duration 45 minutes. 15%

Questions will be set on recorded excerpts played during the exam.

Written Paper - Duration 1 hour 30 minutes 25%

2 structured questions on 2 different musical styles.

A2 Modules

Unit 4 – Specialism – 30%
Either 1 x 3 minute composition or 1 x 20 minute performance. Approximately grade 6. 15%

Unit 5 – Composition / performing - 30%

1 compositional technique exercise.
Performance - 4 pieces (1 recorded and sent to Edexcel for assessment).

Listening Paper - Duration 1 hour - 15%

Questions will be set on recorded excerpts played during the exam.

Written Paper - Duration 2 hours – 25%

2 structured questions on 2 different set-works and 1 essay on a topic continued
from unit 3.