Component 1: Performing is a non-examined assessment (NEA) worth 30% of the A-Level. It requires students to perform a recital of at least eight minutes, consisting of one or more pieces, which can be solo, ensemble, improvisation, or a realisation using music technology. The performance must be live, unedited, and recorded in front of an audience of at least two people.
Component 1: Performing is a core component of the Edexcel A-Level Music qualification, accounting for 30% of the total A-Level marks and 60% of the AS grade. This component assesses your ability to perform as a soloist and/or as part of an ensemble, demonstrating technical control, expressive interpretation, and stylistic awareness. You are required to submit a recorded performance of a programme lasting 6–8 minutes at A-Level (or 4–6 minutes at AS), which can include one or more pieces. The repertoire must be drawn from at least two different areas of study, ensuring breadth and depth in your musical engagement.
This component is crucial because it develops your practical musicianship, which is central to understanding music as a living art form. Performing not only hones your technical skills but also deepens your interpretative and analytical abilities, as you must make informed decisions about phrasing, dynamics, and articulation based on the stylistic context of each piece. The skills you gain here directly complement the other components: you will draw on your knowledge of musical elements and contexts from Component 3 (Appraising) and apply compositional techniques from Component 2 (Composing) in your performance choices.
To succeed in Component 1, you must plan your programme carefully, balancing technical demands with musical expression. Your performance is assessed on accuracy (pitch, rhythm, intonation), technical control (tone quality, articulation, fluency), and communication (interpretation, style, and overall impact). Regular practice, mock recordings, and feedback from your teacher are essential. Remember, the recording is a one-shot submission, so preparation and consistency are key.
Key skills and knowledge for this topic
Key points examiners look for in your answers
Expert advice for maximising your marks
Pitfalls to avoid in your exam answers
Common questions students ask about this topic
Essential terms to know
How questions on this topic are typically asked
Practice questions tailored to this topic