Who is the course for?

This course is designed for musicians who wish to follow an academic program incorporating popular styles, computer based music and recording work.

Students should have an open-minded attitude to a variety of styles such as jazz, rock, electronic, reggae etc. and have an interest in the scientific aspects of sound such as acoustics.

In order to begin Music Technology you must…

• Have a minimum of Grade 5 on your instrument (students who have not taken the Grade 5 exam but think they have attained this level will need to audition)

• Be able to read and write traditional musical notation fluently (treble and bass clefs)

• Be willing to take Grade 5 theory if you do not already have the qualification.

It is not necessary to have GCSE Music.

Content outline

AS - Practical work involves the production of a portfolio of three pieces of work: A sequenced performance, a multi-track recording and a sequenced arrangement.

There is a written exam at the end of the year – Listening and Analysing, based on popular music of the 20th century (with two set focus styles) and musical and technology questions.

A2 - Practical work: includes the above units with the addition of a second portfolio: sequenced performance, multi-track recording and sequenced composition. There is a written exam at the end of the course – Analysing and producing, which also includes the area of study ''The History of Music Technology'' and a practical mixing exam.