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Music A Level

The A Level Music course offers a diverse exploration of musical styles and traditions, studied within their cultural and historical contexts. Students gain a strong foundation in European Art Music, popular and contemporary genres, and Musical Theatre, while developing skills in performance, composition, and analysis.

Exam board: Eduqas

Music Performance in QM Hall

What Topics are Covered?

A Level Music course balances practical and academic study across three core areas: performing, composing, and appraising. You will explore:

The Western Classical Tradition, with a focus on the Development of the Symphony (1750–1900).
Musical Theatre, examining influential composers and works.
Into the Twentieth Century, analysing innovative styles and movements.
Popular and contemporary music, alongside European Art music.

Learning takes place through a mix of group work, individual study, tutorials, listening, and performance projects, helping you develop a deeper understanding of music’s inner workings, cultural significance, and creative intentions.

What Skills Will I Develop?

By studying A Level Music, you will develop both subject-specific and transferable skills, including:

A thorough understanding of music theory and performance.
Analytical and creative skills through composition and appraising.
Strong communication abilities for presenting and discussing ideas.
Collaboration and teamwork, honed through ensemble performance and group projects.

These skills are valued by universities, conservatoires, and employers, making Music an excellent choice for academic progression and future careers.

What are the Course Entry Requirements?

To join the A Level Music course, you will need:

General requirements: 5 or more GCSEs at grade 4/5 or above, including English Language (and ideally Maths).
Specific requirements: Ability to sing or play a musical instrument to at least Grade 4 standard.
Desirable: Knowledge of music theory to Grade 4 standard or prior study of GCSE Music.

Most importantly, we look for students with enthusiasm, commitment, and a passion for musical development.

How Will I Be Assessed?

A Level Music is 100% externally assessed. Students can specialise in either Performing or Composing.

Component 1: Performing – solo or ensemble performance (25% or 35%).
Component 2: Composing – creating music to set briefs (25% or 35%).
Component 3: Appraising – written exam on set works and listening analysis (40%).

Performing and Composing together contribute 60% of the final grade, while Appraising makes up the remaining 40%. The first year builds a strong foundation across all three components, with the second year extending these studies at a more advanced level.

What Subjects Complement Music A Level?

Music combines well with a wide range of A Level subjects. Popular pairings include:

Mathematics and Science – supporting logical thinking and problem-solving in areas like acoustics and theory.
Modern Foreign Languages – connecting music to culture, heritage, and communication.
Music Technology, Media Studies and Arts subjects – for those interested in creative industries, performance, or arts management.

These subject combinations enhance creativity, broaden academic skills, and open up varied progression routes. Find more about other courses here.

The QMC Music Scholarship

The QMC Music Scholarship offers talented students a specialist package of support to help them achieve their full musical potential. This prestigious award provides enhanced opportunities, resources, and guidance for gifted musicians.

Extra-Curricular Enrichment Opportunities

A Level Music students can enjoy a wide range of enrichment opportunities designed to extend learning and provide real-world experience:

Practice Facilities: Practice rooms are open all day, every day, for rehearsals.
Concerts & Performances: A series of annual concerts give students the chance to perform solos, ensembles, and carols.
Pit Band & Ensembles: Take part in the annual January musical as part of the Pit Band, or join ensembles.
Workshops & Lessons: Access instrumental and singing lessons, music theory workshops, audition preparation, and the QMC Records initiative.
Trips & Experiences: Enjoy trips to concerts, musicals, and theatre productions, plus the opportunity to join the summer Performing Arts trip to New York.

These activities help you develop performance skills, gain industry experience, and join a vibrant music community at QMC.

Career Pathways and Progression Routes

A Level Music provides excellent preparation for further study and careers. Many students progress to:

Universities offering Music, Performing Arts, or related subjects.
Specialist music colleges and conservatoires for professional training.
Colleges of Higher Education, where pathways include music production, sound engineering, or music education.

This qualification can lead to careers in performance, composition, teaching, sound engineering, music therapy, and the wider creative industries. Others continue to enjoy music alongside different career paths, building on the lifelong appreciation of music gained at QMC.

Music A Level FAQs

Do I need A Level Music to study Music at university?

Yes, most universities expect A Level Music or an equivalent qualification, especially for performance or composition pathways.

Do I need Music GCSE to study Music at A Level?

No, GCSE Music isn’t essential. You just need to sing or play an instrument to about Grade 4 standard and have a basic understanding of music theory.

What is the difference between Music and Music Technology?

Music A level focuses on performance, composition, and analysis of styles and theory. Whilst Music Technology explores recording, production, sequencing, and sound design.