BHS Sixth Form Options 2025
MUSIC
EXAM BOARD: WJEC
What does the course involve:
There are 3 units taken at both AS and A2 level (performing, composing, and appraising). The school offers a wide variety of extra-curricular music opportunities including Wind band, numerous choices, solo spots in concerts, and the whole school show.
POSSIBLE
CAREER PATHS:
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Performance
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Education
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Music Production/Management
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Music Therapy
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Retail
AS Unit 1: Performing
12%
6 - 8 minutes. A performance consisting of a minimum of two pieces either as a soloist or as part of an ensemble or a combination of both. One piece must reflect the musical characteristics of one area of study.
AS Unit 2: Composing
12%
3 - 6 minutes. One composition lasting at least one minute written to a brief set by WJEC using techniques associated with the Western Classical Tradition. One free composition lasting at least two minutes.
AS Unit 3: Appraising
16%
Written exam (approximately 90 minutes). The Symphony 1760 – 1830 including Haydn’s symphony 103 movements 1 & 2. Area of study C: Musical Theatre including Porter, Rodgers, Schoenberg & Lloyd-Webber.
In Year 13, you can opt for performance or composition having greater weighting.
A2 Unit 4: Performing
Option A: Minimum of three pieces. Total duration: 10 - 12 minutes.
22%
Option A: Minimum of three pieces. Total duration: 10 - 12 minutes.
14%
A2 Unit 5: Composing
Option A: Two compositions. Duration of composition: 3 - 6 minutes
14%
Option B: Three compositions. Duration of composition: 5 - 9 minutes
22%
AS Unit 6: Appraising
24%
The Symphony 1830-1910 including Brahms 1st Symphony mov 4. Impressionism including: Reflets Dans L’eau by Debussy; Colloque Sentimental by Debussy; Mother Goose (Ballet) by Ravel. American Musical Theatre: Sondheim & Schwartz
