Performance: Music Performance and Production - Level 4 Professional Diploma (UAL)

This course is accredited by UAL.

Our one-year UAL Level 4 Professional Diploma is a FREE course for those aged 18 at the time of enrolment. It provides a professionally focused, industry-based qualification for moving into Acting/Performing Arts work or onto further study.

This course offers an immersive training experience, specialising in music production. It is designed to be diverse, relevant, and current, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the evolving demands of the music production industry. Our teaching staff, with strong links to the film, theatre, and music industries, bring real-world insights and expertise to the classroom.

For information on our Higher Education policies, including admissions, fees, and student contracts, please see the links below:

• Complaints Policy
• Fees Policy
• HE Admissions Policy
• HE Student Contract
• HE Student Protection Plan

For our full list of policies, governance and fees, please see our website’s policy page.

The course is project-based, featuring several creative and performance projects over a one-year duration. The Skills Projects will focus on developing voice, movement/dance, presentation, and music production skills. The two larger Production Projects will centre on devising original work for different audiences, integrating advanced production techniques to enhance the overall performance.

Core Modules:

• Unit 1: Applied Professional Practice - Internally assessed and internally verified
• Unit 2: Specialist Performance Practice - Internally assessed and internally verified
• Unit 3: Specialist Performance Project - Internally assessed, internally verified and externally moderated

Music Performance and Production

A standout feature of our programme is its emphasis on music production. We go beyond traditional training to include extensive work with cutting-edge technical equipment. Students will gain hands-on experience with:

• Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs): Master industry-standard software such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Ableton Live, essential for modern music production.

• Sound Design: Learn the art of creating and manipulating audio to enhance music tracks and multimedia projects.

• Recording Techniques: Gain expertise in microphone placement, audio signal flow, and recording techniques for various instruments and vocals.

• Mixing and Mastering: Develop skills in balancing audio tracks and finalising recordings to a professional standard.

• Motion Capture Technology: Understand how motion capture can be used in music videos and live performances to create engaging visual experiences.

• Green Screen Techniques: Utilise green screen technology to produce high-quality music videos with special effects.

Comprehensive Music Training

In addition to technical skills, the programme covers a wide range of music production techniques:

• Musical Theory and Composition: Enhance your understanding of music theory and composition to create compelling tracks.

• Performance Techniques: Study different musical styles and apply them in various production contexts.

• Creative Skills: Foster creativity through improvisation, collaboration, and innovative production methods.

Collaborative and Professional Experience

Collaborative work is at the heart of our programme. You will:

• Work as Part of a Production Team: Engage in ensemble projects that simulate a professional music production environment.

• Input from Industry Experts: Benefit from regular workshops and masterclasses with external practitioners, including producers, sound engineers, and professional musicians.

• Community Performances: Take your production work on tour to different communities, gaining valuable experience in diverse settings.

Professional Development

We are dedicated to enhancing your unique talents through personalised guidance and professional development sessions. We aim to equip you with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to succeed in the competitive world of music production.

Join our UAL Level 4 Professional Diploma and embark on a journey blending traditional music production training with innovative techniques. Our programme ensures your work is responsive to current local, national, and global issues, making your training both meaningful and impactful.

You will need:

• Pass at Level 3 / A Level qualifications in Performing Arts and/or related arts qualifications

We consider applicants with no formal qualifications.

Applicants will need to attend an audition.

As this is a project-based course, the assessment will be through coursework presented in practical performances and creative portfolios.

You will receive feedback on all your assessments. The feedback presented is individualised to ensure that each student progresses to the best of their potential and ability.

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.

Adults - Level 4

This course may be free or reduced-cost for you if you meet certain conditions:

• If you are not working or have a low income. You need to show proof of your income or benefits.
• Residency rules apply. You need to show you have permission to live, work and study in the UK without conditions.
• There are some exceptions, such as certain visa types.

Check here which documents you need to show us, and which visa types are allowed.

If you do not meet the residency rules, you can still enrol on the course but you may have to pay some fees. All applicants are fee-assessed during enrolment.

If you are not eligible for a free or reduced-cost course, you need to pay the full fee yourself, or apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.

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

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

Total course cost: £4,670

The course prepares you for work in the music production industry in areas such as recording studios, live sound engineering, music for film and TV, and multimedia production.

Students can also progress to specialised music production schools or university degree programmes in music technology, audio engineering, or sound design.