Music & Music Technology Information

A level Music:
 
Grade 5 theory has been set as a minimum A level Music entry level requirement at Woodhouse College due to the amount of orchestral and other score reading/understanding involved in the course. This is also helpful for the composition component. Applicants who have this qualification on entry find the transition from GCSE Music to A level Music easier.
 
However, applicants who don't have any formal music qualifications including Grade 5 theory are not excluded from applying. They are invited for an audition/interview with the Head of Music to assess their suitability for the course, and equally, for the applicant to assess whether the course is right for them. Following the audition/interview, the Head of Music will inform the Registrations Manager whether or not he feels the applicant is suitable for the course.
 
The feedback may consist of the applicant developing their theory skills before the start of the course. There are many free online courses that applicants can use for this purpose. We have had many students join the course in this way who have gone on to do well in A level Music and move on successfully to university / conservatoire.
 
The ABRSM exam board requires all candidates to pass Grade 5 theory before moving on to Grade 6 on their chosen instrument.
 
We do hope the above has answered your questions, however, if you require further clarification, then the Head of Music, Dr K Thomson, would be more than happy to receive your queries directly by emailing kthomson@woodhouse.ac.uk or by calling 07930 506 889.
 
 
A level Music Technology: 
 
Applicants who are currently not studying GCSE Music or do not have any formal music examinations are not excluded from applying. They would be invited for an audition / interview with the Head of Music Technology to assess their suitability for the course, and equally, for the applicant to assess whether the course is right for them. Following the audition / interview, the Head of Music Technology will inform the Registrations Manager whether or not they feel if the applicant is suitable for the course.
 
Interviews / auditions usually take place anytime between the months of February / March / April / May. Applicants would normally be asked to bring in a composition piece to play, however, if they do not have a composition piece, then it is not an issue.
 
If the applicant is unsuccessful for the A level Music Technology course, then they have the opportunity to put forward an alternative subject, by emailing admissions@woodhouse.ac.uk.