MUSIC
Our Foundation Programme in Music is designed to prepare you for undergraduate study at a Music conservatoire or university. It also gives a firm grounding in the study skills required to study in the UK.
In addition to the common Key Components Strand, students will study the following subject components:
MUSIC SUBJECT COMPONENTS
MUSIC THEORY (FACULTY OF CREATIVE ARTS)
The ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) is one of the oldest and most respected examining bodies in the world and grade 8 theory is accepted by universities and conservatoires as an alternative to A level. Students will be taught Grades 5-8 music theory individually by our Royal College and Royal Academy of Music trained staff and are able to sit exams twice a year (November & March). Grade 5 theory is required before you can take practical music exams and UCAS points are awarded for grades 6-8.
Click here for more information about Music Theory Exams.
Harmonic vocabulary & modulation
- Harmonic vocabulary & modulation
- Four-part writing / keyboard style & figured bass
- Completion of outline in given style
- Score reading & focus on context
MUSICAL ANALYSIS (FACULTY OF CREATIVE ARTS)
This is an intensive course providing an overview of the history of music from 1770 until 1910. Students will be taught how to use the standard music vocabulary to analyse music. This is internally examined in mid-January.
- Introduction to aural skills and analysis
- Stylistic features of each musical period
- Key composers
- The symphony
Assessment Method: External certification
PERFORMANCE SKILLS (FACULTY OF CREATIVE ARTS)
Students will have individual lessons on their principle instrument/voice as well as on a secondary instrument/voice to prepare them for the ABRSM practical grade exams.
This is externally examined by the ABRSM in March/April and June/July.
- Grade 8 or Diploma examination preparation in principle instrument
- Grade examination preparation for secondary instrument
- Preparation for aural examination for practical grades
- Alexander Technique lessons (certificated and taught externally)
- Compulsory attendance to one extracurricular musical activity (ECA)
Assessment Method: External certification
COMPOSITION (FACULTY OF CREATIVE ARTS)
Composition is a must-have skill for music undergraduates in the UK. Successful students will need to demonstrate technical proficiency and creativity.
This is internally examined in May.
- Writing a composition to a set brief
- Using Sibelius software to control the musical elements
- Producing professional looking scores of music
- Writing a composition in free style
Assessment Method: Written exam
Music specific entrance requirements: Students should be currently working towards Grade 8 standard at Distinction level or the equivalent.
