Music

Music is a versatile and very well respected academic A level.  It combines well with both Science and Arts subjects and is also accepted by universities as an academic qualification to read other subjects.  For those specifically interested in musical careers, there are opportunities in music administration, performing, teaching, composing, arranging and editing, publishing, recording and production, and music therapy.
 
Who would this suit?...
 
Music is a compulsory course for most music degrees and can be used to complement any other degree course, including medicine. Students wishing to study Sound Engineering and Music Production should consider taking Maths, Physics and IT courses to complement this subject. Students wishing to study Music and Media courses could consider taking Media Studies,  Film Studies and English Language/Literature to complement this subject.
 
The aim of the specification (AQA) is to provide a balanced course in Music and at the same time give scope for the development of individual interests and aptitudes.  Students are encouraged to: Listen to and appreciate a wide range of music genres; Study and practice critical listening; Develop performing skills. This course offers opportunities for practical musicians and is also designed to challenge students who wish to deepen their musical understanding and technical skills.
 
You need a range of GCSEs A-C, with at least a C in Music, and be Grade 5 standard on at least 1 instrument.  Grade 5 theory is highly desirable and some experience of using composing software such as Sibelius would be useful.  As with all subjects at this level, good English language skills would be very much to your advantage.
Qualification: 
AS Music: AQA
Length: 
Level 3 one year course, 4 periods per week
Unit 1: 
 
Brief description of Unit 1:  There are two parts to this examination: both are based on structured listening questions using a CD of musical excerpts. There are essay questions, one in each Area of Study. The first is compulsory and is based on Mozart’s ‘Jupiter’ Symphony. For the second essay you can choose to answer on Baroque Choral Music or Musical Theatre, 1940-1980.
 
Unit 2: 

Brief description of Unit 2: Unit two concentrates on Compositional techniques: harmonisation of a 16 bar melody and controlling texture. You will work to a brief published by AQA on 1st. November 2010. The coursework is then completed in twenty hours of controlled time.

 Unit 3

Brief Description of Unit 3: You will give two performances each lasting 5-8 minutes. You can choose from: Solo, Solo on a second instrument or Ensemble. There may also be Music technology opportunities. It is important here to aim for Grade 5-6 standard repertoire.

 

What the department specifically offers that is noteworthy...: 
Every AS Music student is allocated 30 minutes of 1-to-1 instrumental/voice lessons per week to help them prepare for the performance recital - this is delivered by our team of dedicated and experienced instrumental teachers.
 
All Music courses at Loreto College are taught in the Music Suite of the purpose built Ellis and Kennedy building. The first floor Music Suite consists of a general music classroom, four practice rooms, a sound recording studio and the music technology room all of which have recording capabilities. These high-tech and well-equipped rooms provide the most modern, state of the art sixth form music facilities in the Northwest.
 
A range of performance opportunities. Ensembles include a Choir, Big Band and also a Chamber Choir. In addition to this, students are encouraged to take part in the College Production, as part of the cast, the band or the technical team.
 
Students are encouraged to work through Associated Board Music Theory examinations, and the College enters students for these examinations twice a year.
 
Trips include a visit to the Bridgewater Hall to watch the Halle Orchestra perform and also to the BBC’s MediaCity in Salford Quays to listen to the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra rehearse.
Exam Board: 
AQA
GCSE Requirements: 
General College entry requirements. PLUS A*-C in Music GCSE and/or grades in chosen instrument plus audition in enrolment.