In a friendly and focused atmosphere, you can improve existing skills and develop new ones. With a focus on developing practical, listening and analytical techniques in a creative environment, the course will give you hands-on experience in both in-the-box and out-of-the-box music production contexts. We operate with industry-standard software, running Logic Pro on new M1 Apple Computers with supplementary professional grade plugins provided by our partnership with Acustica audio.
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 composition using synthesisers and sampling techniques 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. The final exam is a production task carried out under exam conditions. You will also undertake an aural analysis of unfamiliar popular songs testing your historical and production knowledge.
Component 1
RecordingNon-examined assessment: externally assessed 20% of the qualification 60 marks
Component 2
Technology-based compositionNon-examined assessment: externally assessed 20% of the qualification 60 marks
Component 3
Listening and analysingWritten examination: 1 hour 30 minutes 25% of the qualification 75 marks
Component 4
Producing and analysingWritten/practical examination: 2 hours 15 minutes - 35% of the qualification 105 marks.
Course Essentials
PLUS
Some basic keyboard ability
You should also be able to competently play a musical instrument or have a background in music production (a portfolio of previous productions to demonstrate your ability is preferable)
You should also be able to competently play a musical instrument or have a background in music production (a portfolio of previous productions to demonstrate your ability is preferable)
Science GCSE at Grade 4 is also desirable