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Music Technology


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

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 - 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
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

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-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
Steve Bates: ssb@varndean.ac.uk