Page 16 - Sixth Form Courses 2026-2028

A LEVEL
MUSIC

OVERVIEW The merits of music as a means of expression have long been recognised and the
study of this subject develops creative, critical, analytical and communicative skills
that are transferable to many other academic subjects.
Far more than just a practical pursuit, A level Music’s broad programme provides
intellectual and artistic challenges through the study of an engaging range of
music that nurtures an in-depth musical understanding and encourages musical
development through performing, composing and appraising.
The study of music fosters and inspires teamwork, cooperation, excellent
communication, self-management and problem-solving whilst increasing
confidence, self-reliance, self-esteem, a sense of achievement and an ability to
relate to others.

APPROACH Music A level combines elements of history, theory, analysis and practical skills.
Our various A level tutors allow for a wide range of approaches with small class
sizes and our instrumental teachers assist with the performing element of the
course.
You will make the most of our facilities with opportunities to perform in our
concert hall and to compose using Dorico software on Apple Macs. You will also
extend your appreciation of the diverse heritage of music, promoting cultural
development, encouraging life-long learning and providing access to both
music-related and other careers.

COURSE OUTLINE The course is made up of two compulsory components and two optional
components that students can choose dependent on their individual strengths.
The first compulsory component is listening. In order to prepare for this unit
students will study both Baroque music, including set works by Handel and
Telemann, and The Natural World, with music by Beethoven, Ravel and Takemitsu.
These will be examined through both short and long answer questions and a
choice of essays. Through the teaching of this topic you will develop a strong
understanding of contextual and cultural issues, and learn to make connections
between different styles.
The second compulsory component is Practical Musicianship, which has two
elements, performing (a programme of the student’s choice for 6-10 minutes) and
composing (two contrasting compositions of 1-2 minutes).
Students will also choose two additional units from Extended Performance,
Extended Composition and Investigating Music, an evaluative essay stemming
from the students’ own interests.
FURTHER INFORMATION Students will also need to be having individual instrumental lessons in order to
complete the performing component of the qualification. It is still possible for a
student to take A level Music without completing an IGCSE/GCSE qualification in
Music, though a formal discussion regarding the student’s suitability would be
necessary.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS It is desirable for candidates to have achieved at least grade 7 (A) IGCSE/GCSE
Music or equivalent, and to have reached an approximate standard of Grade 5 or 6
on an instrument or voice. A grade 6 (B) in IGCSE/GCSE Music (or equivalent) is
essential.

EXAM BOARD AND 9483
SPECIFICATION www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/
cambridge-international-as-and-a-level-music-9483/
CONTACT Director of Music (Academic)
Mrs K Barry
barry.k@millfieldschool.com

14 MILLFIELD SIXTH FORM 2026-2028