Music

The A-Level Music course is an academic subject built around three core areas: performing, composing and appraising. The course places a strong emphasis on music theory and the analysis of a wide range of musical styles and genres.

Key areas of study include:

• The Development of the Symphony (1750–1900)
• Haydn and Schubert
• Into the 21st Century
• Rock and Pop (1960–2000)

As part of the Music A-Level, you will complete the following assessed components:

Performance: You will perform as a soloist to a visiting examiner, working towards a minimum of Grade 5 standard in the first year and Grade 6 standard in the second year.

Composition: You will produce a portfolio of two to three compositions in contrasting styles, including a set brief in the Western Classical Tradition and a free choice.

Appraising: Your understanding of musical elements, structure and context will be assessed through a formal written exam featuring comparison questions and extended responses based on prepared and unseen extracts.

The A-Level Music programme provides strong preparation for students looking to progress into higher education or specialist music training.

Many students studying A-Level in Music go on to secure places at leading music institutions, including:

• Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM)
• Birmingham Conservatoire
• Leeds College of Music
• BIMM

Students also progress to universities such as University of Huddersfield, University of Salford and Bangor University.

Common degree pathways include music performance, composition, music technology and acoustics, supporting a wide range of academic and creative career routes.

The A-Level Music course is assessed by Eduqas (WJEC). This exam board is well regarded for its clear specification and balanced approach to performance, composition and musical analysis.

To study A-Level Music, students are expected to meet the following entry requirements:

• At least five GCSEs at grade 5 or above
• A minimum of grade 6 in GCSE Music
• Grade 5 practical standard or above on your chosen instrument
• A working understanding of Grade 5 music theory (or grade 6 at GCSE Music)
• Successful completion of a formal pre-audition before enrolment

Students who do not meet all the entry requirements may still have alternative study options.

You may wish to consider a Mixed Programme, combining A-Level Music with a BTEC qualification. Whether you are on track to achieve five grade 5s at GCSE or not, there may be opportunities to study A-Levels alongside a BTEC at Cardinal Newman.

Students studying A-Level Music have access to a wide range of enrichment opportunities designed to enhance learning beyond the classroom and support progression into further study or the music industry.

Enrichment opportunities include:

• A visit to British Music Experience in Liverpool
• An annual Creative Music Industry Careers Panel, featuring industry professionals
• University and industry visits to University of Huddersfield, BIMM, University of Salford, Spirit Studios and University of Lancashire
• Guest lectures from industry organisations such as WaterBear College of Music and Spirit Studios
• Regular performance opportunities, including participation in the CNC Jazz Band

These opportunities help students build industry awareness, gain practical experience, and prepare for progression into higher education or music-related careers.

A-Level Music works well alongside a range of academic and creative subjects, allowing students to build a balanced and complementary study programme.

Students commonly combine A-Level in Music with:

• RSL Creative Music Industry
• BTEC Music Production
• A-Level Psychology
• A Modern Foreign Language
• Mathematics or other science-based subjects

These combinations support both creative development and academic progression, particularly for students considering university study or careers within the music and creative industries.