Music Performance and Production - Level 3 Diploma

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.

This course consists of two separate qualifications. In your first year of study, you will work towards the Level 3 90-Credit Diploma. Following successful completion of this qualification, you will be able to progress to the Extended Diploma.

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.

School Leavers

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, it will be free. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.

Adults

If you will be aged 19 or older on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, you may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan to cover the cost of your course. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.

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.