Music Technology

In the friendly and focused atmosphere, you can improve existing skills and develop new ones. The department operates with industry standard equipment and all student workstations are Apple Macintosh computers running Logic Pro X and Sibelius 8.5 software. We also use hundreds of plugins, and have Komplete 10 by Native Instruments installed on all computers. The department has practice rooms, is fully equipped with tracking and mixing equipment, and has a total tracking capacity of 16 channels able to be recorded at once on one project. Every workstation is equipped with an audio interface, so students can record up to two channels.

Year 1

You will cover the principles and techniques of recording ranging throughout the 20th Century and present day, sequencing and mixing techniques along with a technology focused understanding of popular music styles from 1910 to the present day, a portfolio of work including a multi-track recording, and a creative arrangement will be achieved by the end of the year. You will also acquire technical skills for recording, working with industry standard DAWs, and develop a fundamental understanding of production methods.

Year 2

Developing individual skills and styles as music producers through the production of a coursework portfolio and an examined commentary. A production task carried out under examination. You will also undertake an aural analysis of unfamiliar popular songs testing your historical and production knowledge.

Component 1

Recording

Non-examined assessment: externally assessed 20% of the qualification 60 marks.

Component 2

Technology-based composition

Non-examined assessment: externally assessed 20% of the qualification 60 marks.

Component 3

Listening and analysing

Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes 25% of the qualification 75 marks.

Component 4

Producing and analysing

Written/practical examination: 2 hours 15 minutes (plus 10 minutes setting–up time) 35% of the qualification 105 marks.

Course Essentials

Courses Available

A Level

Entry Requirements

PLUS

Some basic keyboard ability. An interest in popular music and technology.

You should also be able to competently play a musical instrument. Science GCSE at Grade 4 is also desirable.

How The Course is Assessed

60% exam at end of year 2 and 40% coursework

Career Pathways

The 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 production educational institutes, such as the SAE Institute. Many previous students have gone on to employment in the music and sound industry soon after finishing their A level 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, small band sessions, and workshops. This programme is open to everyone whether you are studying Music or not. The Music Department can also help you find instrumental tutors.

Enquiries To

Joanne Fraser: jcf@varndean.ac.uk