This course is aimed primarily at students who are interested in developing practical musical skills together with music theory and industry knowledge. It is a highly practical course and is centred on performing, music theory and learning about the industry. As it is a popular music course it is suitable for students who sing or play the common pop music instruments: guitar, bass, drums, keyboards. Upon enrolling you will also become a part of the Performing Arts Academy.
The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is equivalent to one A-level. The course covers the core aspects of practical music skills, and relevant industry knowledge. Students studying on this programme will have a keen interest in developing their knowledge and skills and will almost certainly be intending to pursue a career in the industry. This course attracts UCAS points in the same way as an A-level.

Simon Roe
Course Structure
Students are required to study a range of units over two years. All units are externally assessed and externally moderated.
Course Units
The following units are currently offered:
Unit 23 |
Music Performance Techniques |
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Unit 22 |
Music Performance Session Styles |
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Unit 40 |
Working and developing as a Musical Ensemble |
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Unit 15 |
Live Music Workshop |
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Unit 25 |
Music Project |
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Unit 30 |
Pop Music in Practice |
Assessment of Progress
The course is structured around a number of assignments, some of which will be short-term (gigs, written projects) while others will require evidence of long-term progression (instrumental lessons, practice logs, etc.). Each unit has a learning content and outcomes that are clearly stated, and students will be kept informed of their progress. All units are internally assessed. The course is two years in length.
Instrumental Lessons
As performing to a high standard and demonstrating and monitoring technical improvement are such important aspects of the course it is compulsory that all students take regular instrumental/voice lessons. Lessons are available in College and students should sign up with a peripatetic teacher at the start of the year, or continue with their own lessons outside of college. The college operates a bursary system that offers financial support for lessons to some students. If the cost of lessons is prohibitive it may also be possible to have them less frequently e.g. once a fortnight rather than once a week.
Resources
Music (Performing) facilities include:
- Fully equipped performance space including professional sound and lighting systems
- Computer suite with high end PC’s running ProTools 11, Reaper, Sibelius 7
- Digital recording studio incorporating a ‘live’ room and separate control room, complete with significant outboard equipment for effects and processing
- An excellent range of industry standard microphones
- Six practice rooms equipped with pianos and/or PA systems.
- A wide range of band equipment, including amplifiers, acoustic and electronic drum kits
- We have a wide range of working professionals who provide peripatetic instrument/voice teachers who come into college to support students. We can also recommend specialists if needed.
Progression
The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma provides a sound basis for students wishing to proceed to HE courses in Popular/ Commercial Music. It can lead to careers in performing, teaching, and composition as well as related areas in publishing and media. It combines well with most other subjects but compliments in particular Music Technology, Theatre Studies and Media Studies.
Auditions
- All students will be required to attend an audition in the summer term prior to starting the course.
- Candidates will be expected to prepare a solo piece on their first instrument (the instrument they intend to use during the course.
- Candidates will receive an invitation to attend audition following receipt of their application.
Charges
A subscription to a basic Spotify account or similar streaming service is required for access to study playlists for use in the class and at home. There is a charge for instrumental lessons although funds may be available for those who may find the cost of these prohibitive. Students will be expected to provide their own stationery and pay for printing credits. They will need to provide their own instruments and spares (guitar strings, drum sticks, plectra etc.).