PERFORMING ARTS & MEDIA
A-LEVEL
music btec LEVEL 3
music
REASONS TO STUDY THIS COURSE REASONS TO STUDY THIS COURSE
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY
You will explore a wide range of musical scores and recordings
using software such as Cubase, Sibelius, Auralia and Musition.
Music, analysis, score reading abilities and listening skills. Focus
on performance technique and interpreting the performance
details of your chosen pieces. Learn to wield advanced
compositional techniques by studying a variety of key styles,
composers and pieces.
HOW YOU WILL BE ASSESSED
In Performance, you will develop a chosen repertoire through
regular feedback and targets for progression every half term,
culminating in a six-minute recording at the end of the year
(30%).
Two compositions totaling 4½ minutes (30%).
An exam (40%), testing listening and analysis skills as well as
knowledge and understanding of musical works.
3 Excellent preparation for further study in Music and a career
in the music industry.
3 Develop your practical skills, music theory knowledge, music
industry knowledge and music software skills.
3 Learn about a wide range of popular music styles including
Rock ‘n’ Roll, Britpop, Motown and Rock, as well as
composing your own music and learning how the industry
works.
WHAT YOU WILL STUDY
Develop your skills in all areas of music, with a strong focus on
performance and theoretical aspects of the subject. Solo
performance with an individual instrumental lesson, music
theory, composition, freelance musicianship, sequencing, the
history of popular music and sound recording. Group rehearsals
and workshops, live performances and multi-track recordings
throughout the academic year. Music marketing and production
management.
An 18-unit Extended Diploma includes a strong focus on Music
Technology. If this option is taken it is not anticipated students
would also study A-Level Music Technology as content will
overlap.
HOW YOU WILL BE ASSESSED
Solo and group performances, presentations, podcasts, tutor
observations, blogs and written coursework. As this a vocational
course, you will be continually assessed – every piece of work
you do will contribute to your final grade.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO TAKE THIS COURSE WHAT YOU WILL NEED TO TAKE THIS COURSE
• to be confident and skilled performer at grade 5 standard or
above
• to successfully complete an audition
• a passion for different styles of music
• experience reading music notation and have, or be working
towards, grade 5 music theory
• enthusiasm for creating and analysing music • to be an accomplished and experienced performer, though
you do not need formal music qualifications, you should be at
least grade 5 (Rockschool, LCM, Trinity, ABRSM) standard on
your chosen instrument or voice
• to successfully complete an audition
• passion for studying a wide range of music genres from the
1940s onwards
• commitment to developing your skills as an all-round
musician, as well as your instrumental or vocal technique.
PROGRESSION
Study music performance or composition, or a popular, classical
or jazz music degree. Study at university or at a music
conservatoire such as the RNCM and Leeds College of Music.
Career options including performer, composer, musical director,
teacher and music critic.
PROGRESSION
Further study of Performance, Composition, Music Technology
and Production at university. Other avenues could include
Media, Broadcasting, Business, Marketing and Management.
Work as a performer, composer, producer, technician or as a
journalist.
PRIESTLEY EXTRA
Take part in recording workshops, ensemble performances,
concert trips, guest speakers from the music industry and the
college productions. Attend professional workshops and
residential trips throughout the year.
PRIESTLEY EXTRA
Additional music theory classes, Jazz Club and ‘Breathe’ the
college choir. Regular visits, workshops and trips.
www.priestley.ac.uk 01925 415415
[email protected]
3 Excellent preparation for further study in Music and a career
in the music industry as a performer, composer or
musicologist.
3 Expand your awareness of the features of different musical
styles including Popular, Jazz, Baroque, Classical and Music
for Media.
3 Develop your knowledge of music theory, listening skills,
musical analysis and composition skills.
3 Increase your understanding of performance practice and
improve your technical skill on your instrument or voice.