Music

Why Should You Take This Course?

If you can play an instrument to grade 5 standard and are interested in analysing a broad range of music, composing and performing, this course will help strengthen those skills. You should have a broad understanding of the development of Western music and be able to play your instrument in a range of styles. It is essential that you are able to read music.

Course content
The course is made up of three components that focus on different skill sets:
Component 1 (Performance)
Focused on the development of your performance on your instrument culminating in a solo performance of one or more pieces, performed as a recital.
Component 2 (Composing)
These elements look at the creation of pieces of music using a wide variety of techniques it leads to the creation of three compositions, two set to a brief and one free composition.
Component 3 (Appraising)
You will look at a wide range of musical history/development in the Western tradition through six areas of study:

• The Western classical and 4 set works tradition
• Rock and Pop
• Musical Theatre
• Jazz
• Into the Twentieth Century.

This leads to a formal written exam lasting 2 hours and 15 minutes.

How will I be assessed?
Component 1:
25% or 35% depending on option taken (Option 1 Composition/Option 2 Performance).
Component 2:
25% or 35% depending on option taken (Option 1 Composition/Option 2 Performance).
Component 3:
Written examination (40%) responding to questions relating to the area of studies.

Are there any special expenses?
The College does have various instruments and equipment, but it will be beneficial for you to bring in your own instruments if possible. You may want to purchase books on techniques specific to your instrument/voice. Opportunities to attend performances, workshops and seminars will be available during the course, costs will vary.

What could I do next?
You could study Music at degree level at a University
or music college. Professional work is diverse but includes performing, teaching, management, TV, radio and record production.

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How to apply for this course

Apply for this course