About the Course:
This course is a BTEC National Award, equivalent to A Level. The qualification gives students the opportunity to study a broad Music Technology curriculum, developing music and music technology skills for both the workplace and higher education. This two year course is based on the new technology which is used to create music and work will be done on PC based audio stations as well as traditional mixing and recording desks. There is also an option to study various aspects of the music industry including promotion, management and production.
Assessment:
A grading scale of Pass, Merit and Distinction is applied to all units.
In Edexcel BTEC Nationals all units are internally assessed. All assessment for BTEC Nationals is based on strict criteria and it is very important to keep an up-to-date folder of coursework as evidence. Each unit has specified criteria which are to be used for grading.
There is no external exam. Instead, moderators verify coursework from a number of units completed through the duration of course. These units cover the following topics:
Sound Recording Techniques
This will provide you with a fundamental understanding of sound recording technology. It applies theoretical and practical learning, including hands-on experience in the recording studio.
Creating and Marketing a Music Product/Planning a Music Recording
These combined units focus on the preparation and delivery of a recorded music product. Students will produce a conceptual music package such as a CD to demonstrate recording and production skills, project management, team-working and product marketing.
Music Sequencing
The unit introduces you to sequencing, sampling, MIDI systems and representative commercial music software.
Computer Music Systems
This specialist unit is designed to give students a basic understanding of computer technology as applicable to the music industry. Students will need to become familiar with the routine use of computers, the correct terminology and the operational skills required to work effectively with software and peripherals for a variety of musical applications.
The Sound and Music Industry/Music Freelance World
These units take an in-depth look at the workings of the music industry. The unit is supported by a wide variety of guest lecturers from all aspects of the industry. The unit will also help you develop your career aspirations and understand the working conditions within different areas of the music industry.
Is there anything else I need to know?
Due to the course content it is advisable to have taken GCSE Music; however, promising musicians with an interest in recording and music technology
should talk to the staff in the Music department about suitability for this subject.
Progression Routes:
The qualification can provide the UCAS points required to allow access to higher education courses such as degrees and foundation degrees. Popular
music and sound production courses are now on offer at most universities and usually include a year’s placement in industry.