This course caters to students from the age of 6 to 18 years old.
The Western Music Department’s Academic Music Programme nurtures serious-minded young musicians and takes their musical knowledge and playing to the next level. It is a wonderful opportunity for children with a passion for music to develop.
The programme comprises of one to-one instrumental tuition, group classes in music theory and history, and ensemble playing, all scheduled after school hours.
Students are carefully assessed by the QMA internal examinations and by the reputed Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) examinations.
What are the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music ABRSM Examinations?
The ABRSMs are graded music exams that provide a structured framework for a steady progression from beginner to becoming an accomplished musician.
Instrumental exams are offered from Grades 1 and up to Diploma level. Students may enter any practical or Music Theory exam grade without having taken any other, however, there is a requirement to have passed Grade 5 Theory before Grade 6–8 Practical exams can be taken.
Passes in Grades 6–8 in either Music Theory or Practical exams may be used as part of the UCAS tariff in obtaining a university place in Britain.
The two types of Grade exams are as follows:
Practical exams:
These are by far the most commonly taken exams in the world. These exams incorporate four individual components; set pieces, sight reading, aural and scales.
The exams are marked out of 150, where 100 is a pass, 120 a pass with merit, and 130 a distinction. In the aural component, candidates demonstrate their understanding of melody, harmony, rhythm and form by responding to questions about music and by singing or playing an instrument of their choice.
Music theory exams:
Music Theory exam is a written exam. The exam paper lasts between one and a half to three hours depending on the grade.
The exams are marked out of 100, where 66 is a pass, 80 for merit, and 90 for distinction. Candidates are required to pass Grade 5 Theory and Grade 5 Practical Musicianship to progress to Practical exams at Grades 6, 7,8 and the Diploma.