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KS 5 - MUSIC



Students who opt to study music complete a BTEC National Award which is equivalent to one A-level (A to C).  They study six units. Students specialise in either performing or composing and complete 2 other compulsory units, Planning a Music Project, and Music Project. Students also complete 3 additional units which can be chosen from a selection of around twelve. These are chosen for each cohort under guidance from the staff. Optional units currently being offered are:

  • Music Theatre Performance
  • World Music
  • Popular Music
  • Listening Skills

Students are encouraged to continue developing their performance skills, regardless of their specialism.  The Academy supports this by funding 75% of the cost of tuition which is reviewed annually.

Music Technology:

Students follow the Edexcel A-level syllabus. This course requires some musical knowledge so although it is not necessary to have studied music at Key Stage 4 it is highly advisable. Students who have not studied music at Key Stage 4 will need to spend time familiarising themselves with Logic Express and also ensuring they have a good understanding of music notation.

The course involves developing 3 main practical elements:

  • Sequencing: This involves manually inputting a commercially available piece of music into a computer programme (Logic Express) and creating a version which is as close to the original as possible.
  • Arranging: Students learn how to take a piece of music from one style and arrange it in another style.  For example: what would ‘My Heart Will Go On’ (theme song from Titanic) sound like as an upbeat dance track?
  • Recording: Students develop their skills as a studio director. They learn how to use a variety of equipment and how to set this up to record various groups and soloists.

Throughout the 2 years of this course, students are required to develop their knowledge of popular music and jazz, and the development of music technology. This is assessed through listening papers at the end of Year 12 and 13.

Course Books and Equipment

  • Suggested reading: Basic Live Sound (Paul White), The Rough Guide to World Music.
  • Planner, pen, pencil, coloured pencils, ruler, eraser

Events and Trips


Key Dates