Music Performance and Production - Level 3 Extended Diploma (UAL)

This course is for musicians who want to enter the music industry as performers, producers, singers/songwriters or those who want to get into a business role within the industry. You will study and develop skills in performance, production, composition, musicianship and music business, and will have the opportunity to record in our state-of-the-art recording studios.

We encourage you to learn additional instruments to your first study instrument and perform in college and at venues in Camden and across London. Although the emphasis is on practical and performance work you will need to complete written assignments and develop your skills as an informed and reflective practitioner through evaluative logbooks and rehearsal diaries. You will learn to evaluate and comment critically on both professional work and your own creative practice, gaining insight into the wider performing arts industry through contextual and industry studies.

Our music laboratories have industry-standard equipment, including Apple iMacs, equipped with Logic, Ableton, Midi Keyboards and fully functional recording studios with state-of-the-art mixing desks. There are opportunities to participate in live performances and you will study topics related to the music industry. There will also be visits, trips and work experience. Many of our teachers are professional musicians, which gives the course a real work focus. During your course, you will be engaging in work-based activities aimed at giving you an insight into working in this industry.

Extended Diplomas have two one-year programmes. You need to finish the first year before moving on to the second.

This course consists of two separate qualifications. In your first year of study, you will complete the Diploma and then move on to the Extended Diploma in year two.

Our Extended Diplomas offer equivalent UCAS points to studying 3 A Levels. Topics covered can include:

• Studio recording and live sound
• Principles of music production and performance
• Critical listening and music composition in Logic Pro X
• The music industry and professional practice
• Critical and contextual awareness
• Music to motion picture
• Live streaming
• Ableton live performance and DJing
• Preparation for specialist study in music performance
• Collaborative music performance and production
• Developing music production and performance skills
• Exploration of specialist study in music production and performance
• Preparing for progression in the music industry

You will need:

• Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and a Music/Performing Arts subject

or

• An equivalent Level 2 qualification at Merit and Functional Skills in English and Maths at Level 2/GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 or above

And

• A successful audition by interview

All applicants must have an interview to confirm that the course is suitable for them.

The course is assessed throughout the year and with an end-of-course portfolio.

AGED 16 - 18

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August 2025 before the start date of the course, and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your course then your study with us will be free.

Please see here for the documents you need to show us.

Some courses have additional costs, such as specialist materials and trips.

Many of our students are eligible for financial support. See here for details.

This course will help you to move on to higher level courses, such as a Bachelor of Arts, or to pursue employment in the music industry.