A Level Music Technology

Component 1 – Recording – You will be asked to record a cover version of a commercially available song. There will be a range of compulsory and additional instruments that you will include in the recording, demonstrating the most appropriate methods for capture and production of those instruments. You will have the opportunity to perform on the recording if you wish, however that would not be assessed. You will mix and master the final recording to a professional standard.

Component 2 – Technology-Based Composition – Briefs for the composition will be given at the start of the year, these could include music for film, computer games, a particular scenario or text may be given as a stimulus. You will choose one brief and using a range of recording, synthesis, sampling and programming techniques produce a composition. It will be 3 minutes long and contain at least six separate vocal/instrumental/sample based parts.

Component 3- Listening & Analysing – This component gives students the opportunity to identify, analyse and evaluate a range of creative music production techniques, as applied to the unfamiliar commercial recordings supplied in the examination. As well as identifying effects and their associated parameter settings, students will explain the principles behind the choice of effects heard on each recording, and their sonic character, in a series of written responses.

Component 4 – Producing & Analysing – In this component students will be assessed performing practical production, editing and mixing techniques to a range of supplied materials. Questions will be asked about the practical tasks being completed in addition to extended written responses about music technology practice or equipment.