BTEC Music (Extended Diploma) Level 3

In a nutshell

This course covers a wide variety of music performance, composition, recording and history.

This course is for you if...

... You have a passion for music
... You are interested in a music career or a performing arts role
... You are enthusiastic about getting creative!

What will I be doing?

You’ll have access to a state-of-the-art theatre with sound and lighting facilities which will be used during your workshop and music nights. You'll use our Mac suites running Logic X for sequencing and our dedicated recording studio for making that all important demo recording.

You’ll rehearse, plan and perform in 3 major music events throughout the year. Your skills as a musician and as a team member will be developed and challenged.

Study includes:

• Music performance techniques
• Music Sessions and Styles
• The music industry
• Arranging and composing
• Computers and music
• Sound recording techniques
• A history of popular music
• Sound for the moving image

You'll be continually assessed, mostly through practical assignments, with written work underpinning the skills being developed as a music student and you’ll achieve:

• Level 3 Music
• Skills Activities
• Maths and English
• Other relevant qualifications to enhance your skill set

What is expected of me?

To enrol, you'll need a minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above to include either Maths/Maths Numeracy or English/Welsh First Language, or appropriate Level 2 Diploma qualification at Merit with GCSE English/Welsh First Language at Grade C or above.

Full commitment to attendance is required, as well as respect for others, enthusiasm for the subject, self-motivation, creative ability and a desire to succeed.

You must be able to play an instrument and vocalists are advised to be able to play, or start to learn to play, an instrument.

What comes next?

Successful completion of the Year 1 90-credit diploma will allow you to progress to the second year and complete the full Extended Diploma. From there, progression routes include a Foundation Degree in Music Technology (available at Crosskeys Campus) and HND courses in Performing Arts, Music and Music Technology, or employment as a performer or technician.

Potential careers in the music industry:

• Event manager, PPC specialist, Radio broadcast assistant, Radio producer
• Theatre stage manager
• Composer, media and communication (music industries), musical theatre, song writing, sound engineering, sound technology, stage management, background singer, blogger, booking agent
  DJ, event manager, instrument technician, music teacher, music therapist, musical director, orchestra/session musician
• Radio producer, recording engineer, singer, tour manager
• Music producer, music journalist, concert promoter, A&R manager

Additional information

As part of the entry requirements you’ll be expected to attend a taster session where you’ll take part in an audition.