Music study enables you to grow as a musician and performer; to explore your creativity while developing compositional skills; and to gain understanding of how music works through study of harmony and analysis.
The Music Department at Holy Cross provides a performance-rich environment, giving you the opportunity to gain experience as a soloist in regular recitals and masterclasses as well as collaborating with other musicians. You’ll be able to join ensembles and choirs and you might be inspired to participate in the college opera, the annual production or even a band night.
Music has been one of the cornerstones of a student’s education since the time of the ancient Greeks. The music department here at Holy Cross believes that the study of music remains an excellent focal point for education: a subject in which students can bring together diverse interests – whether in the Arts or Humanities, Maths or Sciences, or simply ‘music’ itself – in a creative, expressive and academic way.
Music students have a lot to offer the post-college world: demonstrating an ability to undertake dedicated, self-directed learning - practicing and learning an instrument, working together in groups and ensembles - the shared experience of making music, communication, and creatively solving problems - from composition to live improvisation. These qualities are all highly valued and sought in both higher education and the workplace.
There is a great record of our students going on to study music, whether classical, pop or jazz, at conservatoire or university and establishing successful careers in their area.
At the end of the second year the course is assessed in three areas; performance, composition - both ‘free’ and a technical study, and through a listening and analysis exam.
The appraising exam will be based on one set piece by Haydn (Symphony 104 'London') and includes additional works relating to the 'Development of the Classical Symphony.' You will also study 'Musicals' including West Side Story, Wicked and Les Misérables. In the second year of the course, the area of study covers music 'Into the Twentieth Century' including Stravinsky, Debussy and Poulenc.
Level: A Level Music
Examining Board: Eduqas
Entry Requirements:
General College entry requirements.
Students with a GCSE in Music will need to have a Grade 4 or above and a minimum of grade 4 Practical. If BTEC Music has been studied, a minimum of a Merit is required plus grade 4 Practical or above.
In the absence of GCSE or BTEC Music, students must have grade 5 Practical or higher AND Grade 5 ABRSM Theory. For students with no formal practical grades, an audition will be required and this can be arranged in the summer term with the Music Department.
GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4 or above.
Great subjects to partner Music A Level:
Music works well in combination with almost any subject. English Literature, History, Languages, Theatre Studies, Physics or Maths. Music can also be combined with Music Technology, Media Studies, Art & Design or Business.
To discuss whether this course is going to be right for you, please do get in touch.
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