Music OCR AS 3872 A 7872

Music has recently become an increasingly popular subject at Sixth Form level and provides great opportunities for self-expression and development in many areas, not just the intellectual. Besides being an enjoyable subject, it is also important for anyone considering a career in the arts and particularly for stage work. It can also lead to other career opportunities in the worlds of broadcasting, recording and teaching. In general the specification provides considerable choice and enables candidates to demonstrate their abilities to perform, compose and appreciate a variety of musical styles.

Specification

Performing (Component 2550 +2553)
This exciting element of the course requires candidates to prepare a solo recital programme on their 1st Study. The emphasis is on pupils to gain experience in a variety of performance occasions in and outside of school.

Composing (Component 2551 + 2554)
Throughout the course pupils gain a real variety of skills from original composition work to arranging commercially available material, to writing music for film and television. There is a real scope throughout the course and the use of music technology to assist in the composing process is encouraged. The Department is fortunate to have its own discrete Music Technology suite to enable composition.

Historical Study (Component 2552 + 2555)
At AS candidates study 6 set works ranging from the Classical period through to 20th Century Jazz studies. By A2 a choice is offered in a diverse range of historical areas from 20th musical theatre through to early Renaissance music.

Extra-Curricular Music

The School offers a varied and high quality programme of extra-curricular activities. It is expected (as an essential part of the course) that students take part in at least one of these activities. Activities range from Chamber Choir, Concert Band through to Percussion Ensemble, Jazz Band and Chamber Orchestra.

Student Comments
" I really enjoy the variety of the course. This term I am preparing a programme for a recital on my trombone, writing harmony to accompany some Pop and Folk songs and developing my knowledge in Classical and Jazz music. I use the school's Music Technology studio to help in my composition work which is really helpful.
The course is similar to GCSE music and I would recommend it to you. Go for it!"