Learning
Music

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Music in the Sixth Form at The King David High School offers students the opportunity to develop their musical skills, creativity and critical understanding through a rich and practical programme of study. 

Music has significant educational value, supporting personal confidence, creativity, collaboration and academic development. The course encourages students to deepen their understanding of musical styles while developing their abilities as performers, composers and critical listeners. 

Students engage in a wide range of musical activities including performance, composition, listening and analysis, allowing them to explore music from different traditions while developing their own musical identity. 

The department also offers a vibrant programme of ensembles, performances, instrumental tuition and enrichment opportunities, enabling students to experience music beyond the classroom and perform regularly in a variety of settings. 

 

Course Overview 

A Level Music (Eduqas) 

At Sixth Form, students follow the Eduqas A Level Music specification, which provides a balanced approach to practical musicianship and academic study. 

The course focuses on three key areas: 

Performance 

Students develop advanced performance skills through solo and ensemble performances on an instrument or voice of their choice. Music technology may also be used as part of performance work. 

Composition 

Students compose original music, developing their creativity and understanding of musical structure, harmony and style. This includes both free composition and compositions responding to a brief set by the exam board. 

Appraising 

Students develop analytical listening skills through the study of a wide range of musical styles, learning to identify musical techniques and evaluate how music communicates ideas and emotions. 

 

Areas of Study 

Students explore a variety of musical styles and traditions, including: 

  • The Western Classical Tradition 

  • Musical Forms and Devices 

  • Popular Song since 1960 

  • Film Music 

  • Ensemble Music (including jazz, blues, chamber music and musical theatre) 

These areas of study enable students to explore music from historical, cultural and stylistic perspectives while developing their analytical listening skills. 

 

Assessment 

Assessment follows the Eduqas A Level specification and includes both coursework and external examinations. 

Students are assessed through: 

  • Performance assessment (solo and/or ensemble performance) 

  • Composition coursework 

  • Listening and appraising examination 

Regular feedback supports students in refining their musical technique, developing their compositions and strengthening their analytical understanding. 

 

Enrichment Opportunities 

Students studying Music in the Sixth Form benefit from a wide range of extra-curricular and enrichment opportunities. 

These include participation in: 

  • Orchestra 

  • Guitar Group 

  • String Group 

  • Percussion Ensemble 

  • Senior Choir 

  • Various bands and ensembles 

Students also have opportunities to take part in school concerts, performances and productions, including the school musical, which is produced in collaboration with the Drama Department. 

Workshops with professional musicians and opportunities to attend live concerts further enrich students’ musical education. 

 

Instrumental and Vocal Tuition 

Students can access instrumental and vocal lessons with specialist visiting tutors. 

Tuition is available in: 

  • Piano 

  • Flute 

  • Clarinet 

  • Saxophone

  • Violin / Viola 

  • Cello 

  • Guitar (acoustic and electric) 

  • Drum kit / percussion 

  • Brass (including trumpet) 

  • Singing 

Students typically receive 10 lessons per term on a weekly rota basis. 

 

Skills Developed 

Studying Music develops a wide range of valuable transferable skills, including: 

  • Creativity and artistic expression 

  • Discipline and perseverance 

  • Collaboration and teamwork 

  • Communication and performance confidence 

  • Critical listening and analytical thinking 

These skills support success both within music and across many other academic and professional pathways. 

 

Progression and Career Pathways 

Students studying Music often progress to further study in areas such as: 

  • Music performance 

  • Composition 

  • Music technology 

  • Music production 

  • Music education 

Music also complements careers across the creative industries, media, arts management, education and cultural organisations, as well as supporting wider professional pathways where creativity, discipline and collaboration are valued. 

 

Teaching Staff 

Mr C. Rushworth – Head of Music 

 

Contact 

For further information about studying Music in the Sixth Form, please contact the school office or the Head of Music.