Music
“Without Music, life would be a mistake”.
– Friedrich Nietzsche
“I’m grateful for the experiences I’ve gained that I wouldn’t have been offered elsewhere, they’ve prepared me for the adult world in a way normal academia wouldn’t have”. – Music Scholar
The A Level Music course imaginatively explores the three musical disciplines: performance, composition and analysis. Following the OCR specification, students can tailor the weighting of their coursework to their strengths. Each student receives excellent levels of guidance in preparing a performance recital, supported by a wide range of musical expertise across genres such as Jazz, Classical, and Musical Theatre. Our musicians benefit from access to up-todate music technology, and a resident accompanist on staff.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Music if studied at GCSE and completed Grade 6 on an instrument or voice.
Topics Covered
- Instrumental music of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven
- Popular Song – blues, swing and big band
- Development in Jazz
- Religious music of the Baroque period
- Programme music 1820-1910
- Innovations in music, 1900-present day
Methods of Assessment
Unit 1 - Performing (35%)
Students will give a recital in Upper Sixth, for a duration of 6 to 12 minutes depending on your coursework weighting. The recital can be solo or include ensemble works giving you the best experience. The recital is assessed by audio-visual recording.
Unit 2 - Composing (25%)
Over the course you will complete two compositions, and the coursework accounts for 25% of the A Level. Students will have dedicated composition lessons throughout the course, and for those wanting to showcase their composition, you can include an additional technical exercise to increase the weighting of the coursework to 35%.
Unit 3 - Historical Study (40%)
This is the only examination aspect of the course assessment, and it represents 40% of the qualification. Students will study a range of music, focusing on 20th century jazz, jazz musicians and 19th century music. Students will also study two works, one classical and one jazz, providing invaluable insight and analytical skill that is a huge benefit to performing musicians. From the six areas of study, we will pick several to suit a given cohort:
Advanced Musicianship Programme
King Edward VI’s Advanced Musicianship Programme enhances the A Level Music course by offering exclusive opportunities designed to stretch and challenge our most talented pupils. Alongside our prestigious Music scholarship, students who choose to study A Level Music will benefit from weekly enrichment sessions with both specialist and visiting music teachers. Participants will also gain access to our Elite Ensemble Membership, which includes the Chamber Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, Big Band, and Chamber Choir. Additionally, the KES Music Department provides an on-staff accompanist to support students during regular rehearsals and performances
Enrichment Opportunities
• Recitals at KES and Romsey Abbey
• Annual Carol Service
• Musical Theatre Cast and Band
• Senior Spring Gala Concert
• Music Scholars and Captains Society
• Summer Jazz Festival Concert
• Chamber Choir
• Symphony Orchestra
• Chamber Orchestra
• Big Band
• Professional, external musical career guidance sessions and workshops
• Access to the KES Recording Studio
• Accompanist on staff
Meet the Staff
If you have a specific enquiry for the Music Department, email TJHayden@kes.school
| Mrs T.J. Hayden | Director of Music |
| Miss. C.E. Forsey | Teacher of Music | Assistant Head (Co-Curricular) |
| Mrs JK. Seaby | Acting Director of Music |
| Mr J Harris BA | Accompanist - in - residence |
| Mrs A. Thompson BA MA | Teacher of Music |
| Ms. C. M. MacKinnon-Smith | Creative Arts Administrator |
