Music

*IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM HILLVIEW SCHOOL FOR GIRLS FOR SEPTEMBER 2024 APPLICATIONS*

Applications Open: 1 November 2023

Applications Close: 5 January 2024

Entry Requirements: Minimum entry requirements are 5 GCSE's at Grade 4 or above, which MUST include English Language and Mathematics, plus any additional individual subject requirements.

How to Apply: Applications are only accepted via KentChoices.

The Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Music Performance provides an excellent opportunity for singers and musicians to develop their practical musicianship and creativity in conjunction with units which provide a strong foundation to progress to higher education and develop a portfolio career.

Practical Music Theory and Harmony

Through practical exploration you will develop an understanding of the signs and symbols associated with the notation of pitch, rhythm, tempo, dynamics and expression and how to interpret both traditional and alternate forms of notation with a high degree of accuracy. You will learn how scales are constructed and apply them to compose melodies, and how to use chords and progressions in different ways when making music and you will learn to select and deploy various devices to create melodic lines that are creative and convincing.

You will demonstrate your understanding of the above through a composition or arrangement in which you will also gain a secure and thorough understanding of a variety of types of chords and how to apply them. You will use this learning to produce a piece of musical notation that fully articulates your intentions so that they can be efficiently realised and interpreted in a performance situation.

Professional Practice in the Music Industry

In this unit, you will gain an understanding of what is meant by the term ‘professional practice’ as well as what it means to be a freelancer working in the music industry. You will understand the professional skills that are important in the industry and learn the importance of financial management, effective interpersonal skills and working with others.

Ensemble Performance

You will work as part of a musical group and will develop your ensemble skills by taking part in rehearsals. As an ensemble, you will be given a list of songs from which you must choose three. You will then learn, rehearse and perform these songs to an audience. You will also provide a presentation on how you used different techniques, stylistic and musical elements in the musical parts you performed.

Solo Performance

In this unit, you will explore and practise the specific skills associated with performing as a soloist. These will include how to engage your audience, stagecraft, as well as musical practice and rehearsal required. There are many hours of preparation and practice involved, and you will develop the process – that all successful musicians undertake – of creative reflection in order to improve.

General entry requirements: Grade 4 in English Language and Maths together with 3 other GCSE grades at grade 4 or above is the minimum requirement to enter Hillview Sixth Form.

SUBJECT SPECIFIC CRITERIA:

Grade 5 or above in GCSE Music (or equivalent). GCSE grade 4 or above in English Language and Maths. An APS of 4.25 or above.

The ability to read music notation and sing/play an instrument to Grade 5 level, or above is required.

Where will it lead?

There is a wealth of Higher Education courses to suit every kind of singer and musician. Many now maintain a portfolio career and opportunities include teaching, song writing, composing, performing, producing, session musician / singer, music therapy, publishing, and broadcasting. The opportunities are endless.

Super curricular

We provide a wealth of music making opportunities and performances including our Music Department Tour, which in 2026 is to Belgium, the Hillview Record Label, recording, mixing, and producing original material for distribution on platforms such as iTunes and Spotify, various Hillview productions staged at professional venues and trips including West End shows, concerts and other relevant musical events such as Make Music Work by the Incorporated Society of Musicians to support your learning.