Eduqas A-Level Music: Composing (Component 2), a complete overview

Composing is Component 2 of Eduqas A-Level Music: a folio of compositions, marked by Eduqas, taken under Option A or Option B. It assesses AO2. This overview ties the component together; each topic has its own dot-point page. Always confirm the current briefs and requirements with your centre, because the briefs are set annually and reviewed.

The component and the two options

You take the same option in both Composing and Performing. Under Option A, Composing is weighted less (around 25 percent): two compositions (a set brief and a free composition), about 4 to 6 minutes, with at least one related to the Western Classical Tradition. Under Option B, Composing is weighted more (around 35 percent): three compositions (the Western Classical Tradition brief, an area-of-study-linked composition, and a free composition), about 8 to 10 minutes. Option B suits a stronger composer; Option A suits a stronger performer. Everyone also takes Appraising (40 percent).

The Western Classical Tradition brief

The distinctive feature of the folio is the board-set Western Classical Tradition brief, linked to Area of Study A (the symphony). You compose in the late-eighteenth or nineteenth-century symphonic style, demonstrating stylistic understanding (functional harmony, Classical structure, balanced phrasing, thematic development, idiomatic orchestration) drawn from the set symphonies, using them as models for technique, not material to copy.

Composing to a brief and developing ideas

Compose to a brief by interpreting every requirement, planning to meet them, developing the ideas with control, and checking against the brief. Use compositional techniques, motivic development, modulation, textural development, to turn stated ideas into developed music. The free composition (to your own brief) lets you write to your strengths.

Notating and submitting the folio

Each composition needs notation appropriate to its style (a full score, a lead sheet, or a detailed annotation) that clearly represents the music, plus a recording (live or computer-generated). Meet the durations, and supply the required documentation and authentication.

How to approach this component

Choose the option that weights the larger practical component towards your strength; plan the folio to meet the briefs and the Western Classical Tradition requirement; develop ideas with control; write idiomatically; and notate, record and submit properly.