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Music

“Music makes us human—it reminds us of what we share.” – Norah Jones 

At Sacred Heart, we believe that music brings people together, inspiring creativity, confidence, and community. 

What We Study, Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Music (9MU0) 

Edexcel A Level Music is a stimulating and challenging course that develops students’ skills as performers, composers, and critical listeners. It is 100% externally assessed and provides a balanced combination of practical music-making and academic study. 

The course is structured around three components: 

Component 1: Performing (30%) – Students present a public performance lasting at least eight minutes, which can include solo or ensemble work, improvisation, or the use of music technology. This recital is recorded after 1 March in the final year and externally assessed by Edexcel. 

Component 2: Composing (30%) – Students create two compositions: one in response to a brief set by Edexcel and another free composition or to a second brief. Together, these must total at least six minutes and demonstrate understanding of harmony, structure, and stylistic conventions. 

Component 3: Appraising (40%) – This written exam (2 hours 10 minutes) explores music across six areas of study: Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusions, and New Directions. Students study set works by composers and artists such as Bach, Vaughan Williams, Berlioz, Debussy, The Beatles, Kate Bush, Courtney Pine, and Stravinsky, developing their listening, analytical, and essay-writing skills. 

Lessons blend practical music-making with academic rigour, combining listening, score reading, harmonic analysis, and composition techniques. Students perform regularly in both formal and informal settings, supported by professional-standard instruments and music technology that mirror industry and university practice. 

A Level Music at Sacred Heart is distinctive for its collaborative and creative environment. Students benefit from expert guidance, small-group tuition, and rich performance opportunities, ensuring they graduate as confident, versatile, and well-rounded musicians ready for university and beyond. 

Beyond the Classroom

Music at Sacred Heart extends far beyond the classroom, offering students a wealth of enrichment opportunities that inspire creativity, collaboration, and confidence. A Level musicians are at the heart of our performing arts culture, leading ensembles, accompanying choirs, and mentoring younger students. Our co-curricular programme includes choirs, orchestras, bands, and contemporary ensembles, allowing students to develop their skills and experience the excitement of performance. 

Performance opportunities are central to our provision, from informal lunchtime recitals to larger-scale events such as the Advent Service, the Spring Concert, and the Summer Variety Show. Students are also invited to represent the school in competitions such as the Madeleine Sophie Barat Music Competition, “Battle of the Bands,” and regional music festivals. 

We enrich the learning experience through concert trips, university workshops, and professional masterclasses, giving students the chance to experience music across diverse genres and contexts. 

These opportunities not only support musical development but also foster leadership, resilience, and teamwork—qualities that stay with students long after they leave the Sixth Form. Through these experiences, our A Level musicians grow into confident, reflective performers and thinkers, ready to share their music with the wider world.

Where it might Lead

 Edexcel A Level Music provides an excellent foundation for both higher education and employment. The course is recognised by universities as a rigorous academic qualification and is highly valued for its combination of analytical, creative, and performance skills. 

Many of our students progress to study Music, Musicology, Composition, Music Performance, Music Technology, or Popular Music at university, while others pursue joint honours degrees combining Music with subjects such as English, Psychology, or Mathematics. 

A Level Music also supports entry into degree apprenticeships and creative careers, from arts administration and sound engineering to teaching, marketing, and media production. The combination of critical listening, self-discipline, and creative thinking equips students with transferable skills sought after in a wide range of professions. 

Above all, the course nurtures curiosity, confidence, and communication — qualities that enable our students to thrive whether they pursue a professional music career or apply their learning in other fields. At Sacred Heart, we see Music not only as a subject but as a lifelong source of inspiration, connection, and personal growth.