You’ll develop your performance skills through live gigs, rehearsals, creative projects and collaborations, while also building a strong understanding of music theory, composition and musicianship. Taught by experienced professional musicians, the course combines practical, hands-on learning with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in higher education and the music industry

Alongside the practical work, you will explore the theory, ideas and practitioners that underpin the industry, helping you deepen your understanding and develop as a reflective creative professional. You will evaluate your own work, analyse performances and complete written assignments that connect directly to your practical experiences.

In addition to your main programme, you will engage in activities to develop your English, Maths and employability skills. This course does not offer Function Skills English or Maths as part of our programme of study.

You will complete the UAL Diploma in your first year and continue to the Extended Diploma in your second year.

Music Performance Level 3 may include:

• Concert Production and Staging
• Improvising Music
• Music Performance Session Styles
• Music Performance Techniques
• Music Theory and Harmony
• Operating Live Sound and Music
• Weekly Performance Workshops
• Composition and Arranging
• Developing Aural and Musicianship Skills
• Workshops and Concerts by Professional Musicians and Ensembles
• Exploring Music History
• The Music Industry

• 5 GCSEs (9-4) including English (or Level 2 Functional Skills equivalent), or satisfactory results (Merit/Distinction) in a relevant level 2 qualification
• An audition to demonstrate musical ability at Grade 4/5 or equivalent

All eligible applicants will be auditioned and should have sufficient ability to succeed on the course. Candidates will be expected to perform on one instrument (which can include voice) to a good level of proficiency at equivalent to grade 4/5 Rockschool or ABRSM examination standard or above.

The course carries up to 168 UCAS points and prepares you for entrance to higher education courses such as Degree programmes in Music at Vocational College and University- around 90% of our students progress to higher education.

Around 90% of our students progress to higher education.  Many learners progress onto Music honours programmes at universities and colleges such as The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, The Royal Academy of Music, Rotterdam Conservatoire, and The Royal Northern College.

Students have gone on from the course to pursue careers in all aspects of the music industry from performing, teaching, composing and arranging to arts management, journalism and studio recording.

A career in music might focus on education work (teaching or working as a performer in education), on composing and arranging, on technology (recording or instrument technology), on management and administration or on a full range of opportunities in the publishing and retail sectors.

Facilities include

• Professional Concert Hall
• 2 Recording Studios
• Music Production Suite
• 10 Practice Rooms with pianos
• Dedicated Band/Rehearsal Rooms
• Live Recording Studio
• Large Teaching Spaces

What to Prepare?

Please prepare two contrasting pieces to perform on one instrument (this can include voice). These pieces must be at competent level of proficiency to Grade 5 Rockschool, Trinity, or ABRSM examinations standard or above.

As part of the interview process, you will be asked about your experience in performing and your reasons for potentially wanting to build a career in the music industry.

You may also be asked some technical and music theory questions.

Please bring the following items if you are playing an instrument:

• Instrument – The college will provide guitar amplifiers, a drum kit and a piano.
• Cables – You must bring your guitar leads, phone connectors and power supply for pedal boards.
• Backing Tracks – Please provide the backing track via an MP3 player or your phone (bring an adapter if needed). Connection is a 3.5mm (small) headphone jack. Please do not bring tracks on CD or USB.
• If you are a drummer, you must bring your own drumsticks.