a-level music

Music

Music A-Level is a dynamic and rewarding course designed to develop your musical skills, creativity, and academic understanding. This qualification offers a balanced approach across three key components: performing, composing, and appraising.

You’ll study set works from The Western Classical Tradition, including a deep dive into the symphony (1750–1900), alongside two optional areas of study such as Rock and Pop, Jazz, Musical Theatre, or 20th Century Music. Whether you’re analyzing scores, composing original pieces, or refining your performance, Eduqas encourages both creative expression and critical thinking.

Perfect for students planning to study music at university, attend a conservatoire, or pursue a career in the arts, Eduqas A-Level Music equips you with transferable skills in communication, analysis, and independent learning.

As a performer, you will have the opportunity to showcase your talents on your chosen instrument or voice, ideally at Grade 6 standard or above.

Option A

1. Performance 10-12 minute performance recital 35%
2. Composition (Two contrasting pieces) 25%
3. Appraising Exam 40%

Option B

1. Performance 6-8 minute performance recital 25%
2. Composition (Three contrasting pieces) 35%
3. Appraising Exam 40%

Students with Music A-level have gone on to study Music at universities such as Goldsmiths and Cambridge, or to specialist conservatoires, such as The Royal Academy of Music and Guildhall School of Music.

Students are greatly encouraged to attend as many live performances and recitals as possible during the period of the two year course. The college hosts concerts at Christmas and at the end of year Annual Exhibition in which Music students perform individually, in groups, or even in coordination with Music Technology students.

GCSE Music at grade B or above and Grade 5 on at least one instrument is a pre-requisite. Grade 5 Theory of Music (ABRSM) is also highly desirable.

 

Examination board: Eduqas

January Open Day

We would love to invite you to our Open Day on January 27th 2026 (at 2.30pm & 5pm) at our Parkhill Campus.

We believe that prospective students and parents can only really understand what makes Hampstead Fine Arts College so special by coming to visit us and experiencing our unique atmosphere for themselves.

At our Open Day you will hear in more detail about the values and vision of the College, its staff and its students, and enjoy a full tour of the College as well as the opportunity to speak to members of staff.

After this, you are welcome to book an interview with the Principal or the Head which is an opportunity to discuss subject choices in the context of each student’s personal interests and higher education goals.

Sign-up here