Ben Evans
Music
Why did you choose to study music AS level at Blue Coat Sixth Form?
I decided to study my A Levels at Blue Coat because I was a student in lower school and it was a familiar environment: I knew the teachers, and I knew my way around. I could get on with my work from day one without having to worry about getting to know a new environment. I chose AS Level Music as my fourth subject in year 12 to balance with my other my other subjects Maths, Chemistry, and Further Maths. By studying something different which I enjoy and which I am passionate about, it was a great balance of my time.
What is studying music like at Blue Coat?
I took music at GCSE, having started learning guitar in Year 4, and I have always had music had lessons out of school. I joined the school jazz band in Yr10 and the brass band in Yr11. There were only a small group of students studying music AS Level so it was really like 1-2-1 tutoring .and lessons were more conversational and tailored to our individual needs. The AS level is 40% examination and 60% coursework. You need to be at least grade 5 in an instrument. The coursework requires performance, with at least 2 songs performed to an examiner, and you also need to do 2 compositions. One composition is in any genre and the other is more classical style.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of studying music at Blue Coat?
I would recommend studying a creative subject at Blue Coat. Studying music creates some great opportunities to perform at events and play in bands with other musicians. I played at Founder’s Day, church services, festivals and at Speech Night. Studying music allowed me to enjoy my passion whilst studying other STEM subjects. I have also made lots of friends through bands. If you’re new to Blue Coat and you are a musician, music gives a great opportunity to make friends with a similar passion. I had a full timetable in year 12 with few free periods but I think it was worth it because of the enjoyment of studying music. The music teachers are some of the most caring and passionate people in the school.
The Blue Coat Sixth Form is proud to be part of the Cranmer Education Trust
Cranmer Education Trust is a company limited by guarantee and an exempt charity registered in England. Company registration number: 07687709. Registered Office: Cranmer Education Trust, c/o The Blue Coat School, Egerton Street, Oldham OL1 3SQ. The website address is www.cranmereducationtrust.com and the phone number 0161 785 5082.