This two-year course offers the opportunity for young people and adults to work towards the Edexcel A-level in music. This could be for examination at the Conservatoire or as extra tuition to supplement work at school in this subject. Students who are not yet at the required standard may be able to join a specially tailored pre-A-level course. In certain circumstances it may be possible to consider a one-year course for more able students or for those seeking to improve a previous grade. A one-year course is also available for those wishing to sit only the AS level examination. The A-level Music course comprises: Performing Students can choose to be assessed in solo and/or ensemble performance. The course includes coaching, recording, class performance sessions and concerts and will lead to a 5-6 minute recording for AS and a 12-15 minute recording for A2. Individual instrumental or vocal lessons are not included in the course – students will normally be expected to take one-to-one lessons at the Conservatoire. Composing Students develop composition skills and the AS course leads to the creation of a three-minute piece in response to a chosen brief. Students also write a CD sleeve note to describe aspects of their final composition and how other pieces of music have influenced it. There is an extension of composition work in the second year of the course. Musical Understanding This area of the course develops musical understanding through listening to a wide range of music and through the study of set works. Students gain an insight into how music functions as well as an appreciation of the social and historical context of the works they are studying. From September 2008, the termly fee will be £459, excluding textbooks and examination fees. There is an option to pay £153 monthly over a 9-month period. If you would like to know more or would like to arrange an interview with the course leader, Benjamin Rous, please contact Reception on 020 8852 0234.

This course is ideal for:

• Students wishing to take GCSE Music but unable to do so at school
• Students wishing to take GCSE Music in addition to their school subjects
• Students wishing to take the GCSE examination in Music earlier than Year 11
• More able students who wish to complete the course in one year instead of two
• Students requiring extra tuition to support work at school in this subject
• Home educated students wishing to take GCSE Music

The course prepares students for the Edexcel syllabus for GCSE Music and covers Composition, Performance and Aural skills in classical, popular and world music styles. From September 2008, the termly fee will be £333, excluding textbooks and examination fees. There is an option to pay £111 monthly over a 9-month period. It may also be possible for some discretionary assistance to be given. Students take part in ensemble groups playing a wide variety of music, including their own compositions. This gives them the opportunity to try out ideas and hear what they are writing week by week and to receive feedback from tutors and from other members of their group. In addition to the regular course timetable, additional events may be organised from time to time. These have recently included a visit to a musical, Gamelan workshops and an Indian music demonstration. Places are limited. If you would like to know more or would like to arrange a meeting with the course leader Benjamin Rous, please contact Reception on 020 8852 0234.