Music Production
RSL LEVEL 3 EXTENDED CERTIFICATE (equivalent to 1 A Level)
If you’re passionate about music and eager to turn your creative ideas into polished, release-ready tracks, this course is your ultimate gateway to the world of professional music production! Whether you’re into dance music, rock, pop, or hip hop, we’ll equip you with the tools and techniques to make records in any style. You’ll dive into the entire process—from sampling and synthesis to digital production and hands-on use of microphones and external hardware. Learn how to take a musical idea from its early stages all the way to a finished product, ready for release.
In our course, you’ll master everything from critical listening and mixing to composition and arranging. We guide you through the intricacies of recording and mixing music like a pro, using industry-standard software and equipment. Plus, you’ll develop your skills in creating innovative beats, crafting melodies, and perfecting the art of blending sounds seamlessly to create something truly unique.
Music Production is entirely coursework-based and extremely practical, reflecting the hands-on nature of the music industry. You’ll be given multiple opportunities to develop each core skill at progressively deeper levels, allowing you to refine your craft and build a portfolio of work you can be proud of. Whether you’re working with software, creating beats, or experimenting with live recording setups, you’ll get real-world experience in the studio that prepares you for a career in music production. The practical approach ensures you’re not just learning theory—you’re applying it to create your own projects, giving you the confidence and technical expertise to thrive in the industry.
Get ready to unlock your full creative potential and turn your passion for music into a career!
My tutors were so genuine and supportive and I felt I was doing them proud with every step of the progress I made. There was so much support available and I’m glad I made good use of it.
Barney Rudkins-Stow, now studying BA Music Production, BIMM
Course Essentials
Courses Available
RSL Level 3 Extended Certificate (equivalent to 1 A Level)
PLUS
Tangible and substantial music production experience, which can be demonstrated through either a GCSE or BTEC Level 2 music qualification (if taken), or a portfolio submission of music recently made in a DAW and accompanying annotated screenshots.
Practical instrumental skills are helpful and recommended, but not essential.
How The Course is Assessed
100% coursework
Career Pathways
Music Technology A-Level gives you a solid foundation in all things production. It will prepare you for a degree at university, or provide you with a qualification accepted at music-focused higher education institutions, such as SAE, BIMM or ACM. Many previous students have gone on to employment in the music and sound industry soon after finishing their course.
Transferable Skills
Computer systems and software are covered in great detail. Co-operative working; independent learning; using analysis to understand music from a production point of view. You will also learn how to tackle creative projects with ease and from scratch.
Other Information
You can take part in a broad and engaging extra-curricular programme and frequent performance opportunities including Funk Band, as well as the opportunity to learn a new skill in the Introduction to DJing enrichment. Both of these are available to all students across the college.
Enquiries To
Aaron Seigel: ase@varndean.ac.uk
Enrichments
Introduction to DJing
Step up to the decks and learn the essential skills of DJing in a dance music context. This enrichment gives you hands-on experience in live DJing, from beatmatching and cueing tracks to crafting dynamic, high-energy sets. You’ll play with a diverse range of styles, from House to Hardcore and Jump Up to Jungle – or anything you choose to bring in! Whether you’re looking to start gigging or just want to enjoy playing the music you love with your friends, this enrichment will give you the confidence to spin tracks like a pro!
Funk Band
Get ready to groove with our Funk Band enrichment, where our students come together to learn and perform classic tracks selected by you. You’ll have the opportunity to vote on the songs you want to rehearse, building a live set throughout the year. Not only will you develop performance skills and gain invaluable experience in live sound and technical aspects, but you’ll also hone your musical ear and learn the basics of charting, just like a professional musician. It’s the perfect opportunity to work as a band and see the magic of music come alive in a live setting!
Staff Profiles
Aaron Seigel
Aaron Seigel has over fifteen years of experience as a performing freelance guitarist, as well as a wealth of experience in studio production and sound design for visual media. In addition to his music industry experience, Aaron has been running further education music programmes for six years and has previously worked training postgraduate music teachers at Europe’s largest contemporary music education provider. He holds a Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning for Creative Industries.
Jimmy Day
Jimmy Day has over twenty five years of experience working across all aspects of the music industry as a major-label published recording artist and producer, as well as extensive experience composing music for high-profile brands, TV and film. As well as his work within the industry, Jimmy’s passion for developing young musicians has led him to ten years of teaching in further and higher music education. Jimmy’s former students include Rizzle Kicks, Weiss and Grace Carter.
Alumni Success
Celeste
Former Varndean Music Technology student Celeste Waite initially gained attention by releasing songs on SoundCloud, quickly building a loyal following with her emotive voice and unique blend of electronic, pop, and R&B influences. Her breakthrough came with the release of her debut album Not Your Muse in 2020, which topped the UK Albums Chart and earned her widespread critical acclaim. Celeste has since collaborated with Grammy-winning producer Finneas, and her track “Hear My Voice” from the Trial of the Chicago 7 soundtrack earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Her powerful music and distinctive style have made her one of the most exciting and celebrated artists in the UK today.
Josh Tarzi
Josh is a recent Music Technology graduate who began his music production at just 12 years old. Initially developing his skills through the Audio Active production sessions, Josh began releasing music online during his time at Varndean, as well as organising and promoting events around the city. By the time he graduated, Josh had played sold out events at high-profile clubs like Brighton’s Patterns and received hundreds of thousands of listens on Spotify. Now releasing music under his moniker Tarzi, Josh has received recent airplay on BBC Radio 1, has a weekly residency on Select Radio and is part of the label team for the iconic Fabric in London.
Creative Arts Showcase 2024
Varndean College’s annual Creative Arts Showcase is a dynamic and vibrant celebration of the outstanding creativity and diverse talents of the year’s graduating students. It features live music, dance and drama performances, interactive gaming and film screenings, alongside exhibitions of 3D design, textiles, graphic design, art and photography.