Edexcel A Level Music Technology specification (9MT0)
Understanding the exam specification is key to doing well in your Edexcel A Level Music Technology 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 Technology 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 Technology (9MT0) 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 Technology qualification from Pearson Edexcel equips students with both creative and technical expertise to engage with the evolving music production industry. It develops skills in recording, editing, arranging and producing music using a range of hardware and software. Students explore historical, stylistic and technological developments in popular music, while learning how to manipulate sound with fluency and critical awareness. The qualification is ideal for learners aspiring to work in audio engineering, production, or related creative industries and supports progression to higher education or employment in music and media technology fields:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}.Subject content breakdown
Component 1: Recording
- Capture and produce a high-quality recording of a minimum of 7 separate instruments
- Use microphone techniques and DI, mix and balance, apply effects and processing
- Total duration: 2–3½ minutes; full track (no fade-outs)
- Assessable skills:
- Correct use of technology
- Audio fidelity and balance
- Creative handling of musical elements
- Production quality
Component 2: Technology-based Composition
- Create a composition using synthesis, sampling/audio manipulation, and sequencing
- Produce an audio file and a screen capture of the project
- Total length: 2½ minutes
- Must meet a chosen brief from Pearson
- Demonstrates:
- Sound design and synthesis
- Creative use of effects and production techniques
- Structure and arrangement
Component 3: Listening and Analysing
- Focus on areas of study: Recording and production techniques (from 1940s to present)
- Includes:
- Recognition and analysis of effects, dynamics, panning, EQ, stereo field
- Identification of technological developments in music production
- Genres: pop, rock, jazz, soul, funk, disco, EDM
Component 4: Producing and Analysing
- Application of production skills in response to audio and MIDI materials
- Includes editing, EQ, dynamics, time and pitch correction
- Requires use of a digital audio workstation (DAW)
- Analysis of signal path, processing, and mix decisions:contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.
Assessment structure
Component 1: Recording
- Non-exam assessment (coursework)
- 20% of A Level; 60 marks
- Completed under controlled conditions using Pearson-set brief
- Internally assessed, externally moderated
Component 2: Technology-based Composition
- Non-exam assessment (coursework)
- 20% of A Level; 60 marks
- Based on a choice of briefs released annually
- Must use synthesis, sampling/audio manipulation and sequencing
Component 3: Listening and Analysing
- Written exam: 1h 30m
- 25% of A Level; 75 marks
- Includes short response and extended analysis questions based on unfamiliar recordings
- Stereo playback system required
Component 4: Producing and Analysing
- Written/practical exam: 2 hours 15 minutes
- 35% of A Level; 105 marks
- Students work with audio and MIDI files using a DAW
- Includes practical editing and processing tasks, and written responses
- Conducted under supervised exam conditions
All components must be completed in the same exam series:contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Key tips for success
Doing well in your Edexcel A Level Music Technology 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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