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Music Technology

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In a friendly and focused atmosphere, you can improve existing skills and develop new ones. We operate with industry-standard equipment and all student workstations are Apple Mac computers running Logic Pro X. We also use many plugins and have Komplete 10 by Native Instruments on all computers. The department has recording rooms, is fully equipped with tracking and mixing equipment and has a total tracking capacity of 18 channels able to be recorded at once on one project. Workstations are equipped with an audio interface, so students can record up to two channels on their own workstations.Varndean also has a new partnership with internationally renowned audio plugins supplier Acustica Audio wherein the College receives a 50% discount on orders, plus a range of freebies too!

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. 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 setup time) 35% of the qualification 105 marks

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
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
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 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

Laurie Bush: lrb@varndean.ac.uk

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