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GCE A Level in Music

at Pate'S Grammar School, Cheltenham · school or sixth form

Level 3A levelsGCE A level24 monthsFull timeFree

What the college says

Music is a subject that offers a broad academic education at Sixth Form level and a valuable qualification leading to entry to a variety of courses and careers. As well as studying music, former students of A-level music have gone on to study medicine, languages, physics, chemistry, and English, both at Oxbridge and at other prestigious institutions. You would all follow courses in History of Music, Free Composition, Aural, and Performance on your chosen instrument(s). At A2 you have the option to swap free composition for Harmony and Counterpoint. We expect to find in our students both an inquisitive mind and the ability to pursue individual research. An interest in classical music of all periods is essential, as is a willingness to examine music in the light of social and other historical developments. Assessment is by one written examination, one recital and one composition completed in controlled assessment conditions.

What you need to get on

57 Points from Best 8 GCSE subjects (where 9, 8, 7, 6 etc and A* = 8.5, A = 7, B = 5.5, C = 4) Requirements: Pupils must gain a Grade A in Music at GCSE in order to proceed with the subject at A level. Practical ability of grade 6 at the commencement of the course is also necessary, as well as sound notational skills. A thorough, working-knowledge of grade 5 standard theory is also essential

How you are assessed

Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.

What this level means

The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.

Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?

Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.

Where it runs

  • Pate's Grammar School

    PRINCESS ELIZABETH WAY, CHELTENHAM, GL51 0HG

    DaytimeClassroom based
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Start dates

  • 1 September 2026 · CHELTENHAM
  • 1 September 2027 · CHELTENHAM

Who else teaches this exact qualification

Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.

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