Subject Focus: Music

A-level Music

The A-level Music course is split into three different units covering the major areas of musical expertise: 

• Performance 
• Composition 
• Musical Understanding. 

From Classical to Hip-Hop

Lessons are a mixture of theoretical understanding and active participation.  The course involves the study of all music from the 1400s to the present day and you are free to specialise in either Classical or Popular music (or both).   

Perform your own compositions

Every week there is a designated lesson for performance where you (and teachers!) can perform your own compositions, solo work or prepare ensemble pieces during the lesson. Listen to some of our students' compositions using the links at the bottom of this page!

Preparation for the Composition unit is a combination of learning and practicing established composition techniques, (Variation technique / 32 bar song / Bach chorale etc) as well as developing your own ideas.

Develop your understanding of music

The Developing Musical Understanding unit comprises of a listening test and special focus works.  The special focus works are studied in depth during the year and are either pieces of instrumental music or vocal music.  There is also a composition test, which is to complete a soprano, alto, tenor and bass texture.

The first step in a musical career

The music course is very demanding and will test your musical abilities and musical comprehension to the maximum.  However, it does give a solid grounding in music and allows for lots of personal expression and creativity.  Lessons are fun as well as informative and use a wide variety of teaching styles to keep the you focused and involved.

Above all, a career in music starts with being passionate about music - and this is what we want to build on through the course.

Find out more about A-levels at CATS Cambridge