How will I be examined? Besides the aforementioned 60 per cent coursework, pupils will sit an appraising/listening examination worth 40 per cent of the final grade. This will be based on one set work, the nuances of which will be learnt in class, and several unfamiliar extracts from the areas of study that have been chosen. The exam culminates in pupils writing two essays from six available titles based on the areas of study selected. What are my opportunities for project work or coursework? Depending on how pupils wish to divide the 60 per cent coursework element there are differing criteria. Having chosen 35 percent performing, pupils will perform a recital lasting a minimum of ten minutes which contains three contrasting pieces. In addition, pupils who major in performing will need to produce two compositions, one to a set brief and another which is free choice lasting a combined minimum time of 4 minutes. The combined compositions are worth 25 per cent of the total grade. Pupils majoring in composition are required to produce a portfolio of compositions made up of one set brief composition, one free choice and a set of three short technical exercises. This portfolio should have a combined duration of eight minutes and is worth 35 per cent of the total marks. In addition, pupils are required to perform two contrasting pieces lasting a minimum of six minutes to satisfy the performing coursework component.
How will I be examined? The coursework (outlined above) totals 40 per cent of the marks. The remaining 60 per cent is made up of two exam papers taken at the end of the course: • Listening and Analysing (25 per cent of A-level) Pupils will be tested on their knowledge and understanding of recording and production techniques in short listening questions and extend writing on unfamiliar music • Producing and Analysing (35 per cent of A-level) A practical, computer-based exam testing pupils’ skills in editing, mixing and production techniques in a series of supplied practical tasks and one essay focusing on a specific mixing scenario, signal path, effect or music technology hardware unit What are my opportunities for project work or coursework? As outlined above there is a considerable coursework element to this course. The key to success will lie in your ability to organise yourself and your performers to make sure that coursework is completed on time. Some work will be completed in class time, but you will also need to put in a significant amount of time off timetable. There is a focus on teamwork and collaboration in order to get the best out of the equipment available and exploring the creative possibilities of a recording studio and a digital audio workstation.
Mr T G Laverack Head of Academic Music
Mr T G Laverack Head of Academic Music
Music Technology
Philosophy
What is the subject about? Music technology is the study of the production of
What is the subject about? Socrates famously declared: ‘The unexamined life is not worth living’ and philosophy & theology is an opportunity to explore the oldest and most important questions human beings have ever asked: ‘What is true?’ and ‘What is right or good?’ These are timeless questions that have troubled some of the greatest thinkers in human history. Philosophy is a journey through the best that has been thought and written in the West from the Greek philosophy of Plato and Aristotle all the way through to Russell and Ryle and 20-21st century analytic philosophy. Pupils will learn from these great minds the important difference between opinion, simple argument and genuine critical thought. With the great philosopher Kant, for example, we discuss the limits to human reason. Pupils follow the AQA philosophy specification. The philosophy course is intended to allow pupils to think rigorously about fundamental questions of truth and human understanding. It is also intended to introduce pupils to the academic study of philosophy. There are four main areas of study – epistemology (theory of knowledge); moral philosophy; metaphysics of God and the metaphysics of mind. Through an exploration of these issues, together with a detailed study of some of the texts which have influenced the western intellectual heritage, pupils will be prepared for the study of philosophy at university, or any other subject which requires rigorous thinking and the analysis of complex ideas. Specific topics for study include Plato and Aristotle, rationalism and empiricism, moral absolutism and relativism, the inspiration of scripture, conscience, free will and determinism. In addition, pupils will study utilitarianism, virtue ethics, Kant, situation ethics, natural law, as well as the ethical issues surrounding the environment, war, business, euthanasia and abortion.
contemporary music. Pupils will learn how to record, sequence and produce music through the completion of coursework tasks and in preparation for examined units. Coursework tasks include producing a fully realised professional recording, using the College’s professional recording studio in addition to a computer-based composition piece in which pupils will demonstrate their composition, sequencing and production skills in response to a set brief. These tasks include learning about microphone and studio technique, synthesis, sampling and audio manipulation, sequencing, effects and audio processing. Pupils will also learn about the history and development of recording and production technology, the principles of sound and recording technology and their application for corrective and creative purposes. Why might I choose to study music technology at A-level? Music technology is a perfect subject for musicians who wish to extend their practical skills in recording and producing professional standard contemporary music with industry standard equipment. The course does not have any music theory-based assessment, so is suitable for naturally talented, creative musicians who may find themselves without the theoretical knowledge or interest in classical music that is necessary for A-level music.
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