Edexcel A Level Music specification (9MU0)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel A Level Music exam. It lays out exactly what you need to learn, how you'll be assessed, and what skills the examiners seek. Whether you're working through the course for the first time or revising for your final exams, the specification helps you stay focused and confident in your preparation.
We've included helpful revision tools to support you in putting the specification into practice. Wherever you're starting from, you'll find everything you need to feel prepared, from the official specification to high-quality resources designed to help you succeed.
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In the next section, you'll find a simplified summary of the official Edexcel A Level Music specification, along with a breakdown of key topics, assessment structure, and useful study resources. We've also included links to topic-level guides and revision tools to help you put the specification into practice.
Contents
Disclaimer
This page includes a summary of the official Edexcel A Level Music (9MU0) specification, provided to support your revision. While we've made every effort to ensure accuracy, Save My Exams is not affiliated with the awarding body.
For the most complete and up-to-date information, we strongly recommend consulting the official Edexcel specification PDF.
Specification overview
This A Level Music qualification from Pearson Edexcel supports students in developing their musical knowledge, performance ability, and compositional technique. It offers a balanced and holistic approach to understanding music through listening, analysis, performance, and original composition. The course encourages engagement with a broad and diverse repertoire, spanning classical, popular, and world music, while fostering independent learning and expressive creativity. It prepares students for higher education in music and related disciplines or for careers in the arts, teaching, and the music industry:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.Subject content breakdown
Component 1: Performing
- Public performance of one or more pieces
- Solo and/or ensemble playing; may include improvisation or realisation using music technology
- Minimum performance duration: 8 minutes
- Pieces can be in any style and on any instrument (including voice)
- Marked for accuracy, expression, interpretation, technical control and communication
Component 2: Composing
- Two compositions totalling a minimum of 6 minutes:
- One free composition
- One composition responding to a brief assessing technique (e.g. four-part harmony or 2-part counterpoint)
- Use of notation software or handwritten scores accepted
- Must include accompanying rationale and score or lead sheet
Component 3: Appraising
- Set works grouped into six areas of study:
- Vocal Music
- Instrumental Music
- Music for Film
- Popular Music and Jazz
- Fusions
- New Directions
- Students analyse musical elements, context, and stylistic features
- Study of unfamiliar extracts alongside detailed knowledge of set works
- Application of musical vocabulary and analytical comparison across styles and genres:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
Component 1: Performing
- Non-examined assessment
- 30% of A Level; 60 marks
- Internally recorded, externally assessed
- 8–12 minute recital; penalty for under-duration
- Assessed on technical control, accuracy, interpretation and expression
Component 2: Composing
- Non-examined assessment
- 30% of A Level; 60 marks
- Two compositions: one free (minimum 4 mins), one brief-based (minimum 2 mins)
- Must include a score and/or written commentary
Component 3: Appraising
- Written exam: 2 hours
- 40% of A Level; 100 marks
- Section A: Listening (unfamiliar and familiar works)
- Section B: Extended response (comparison and essay)
- Exam includes excerpts from set works and stimulus audio
- Questions test musical elements, context, and analytical ability
Performance and composition must be submitted in the same exam session:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel A Level Music isn't just about how much you study, but how you study. Here are a few proven tips to help you stay on track
- Start with a clear plan: Break the subject into topics and create a revision schedule that allows enough time for each. Start early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Focus on understanding, not memorising: Use our revision notes to build a strong foundation in each topic, making sure you actually understand the material.
- Practise regularly: Attempt past papers to familiarise yourself with the exam format and timing. Mark your answers to see how close you are to full marks.
- Be strategic with your revision: Use exam questions by topic to focus on weaker areas, and flashcards to reinforce important facts and terminology.
- Learn from mistakes: Whether it's from mock exams or practice questions, spend time reviewing what went wrong and why. This helps prevent repeat mistakes in the real exam.
- Stay balanced: Don't forget to take regular breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep, a healthy routine makes revision much more effective.
With the right approach and consistent practice, you'll build confidence and improve your chances of exam success.
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