Music Technology

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above

GCSE English Language or Literature at grade 4

GCSE Music at grade 4 is desirable (not essential)

Instrumental and/or vocal skills are desirable (not essential)

You will study a range of production and music technology topics, including:

Recording techniques

Mixing and editing audio

Sequencing and sampling

Composition using technology

The history and development of music technology

Coursework includes:

A multi‑track recording project based on an artist brief

A technology-based composition in response to a set brief

You will also complete an exam involving listening, analysis and written responses.

skillsDeveloped

Audio production and editing

Creative composition

Critical listening and analysis

Technical problem‑solving

You will learn through:

Listening and analysing audio files and commercial recordings

Production and mixing exercises including error identification and correction

Practicing recording and mixing techniques in groups and individually

Working on a range of composition and editing exercises, involving both MIDI and audio files and the application of a wide range of creative effects

The components taught and assessed are outlined below:

Component 1

Recording – coursework

Production tools and techniques to capture, edit, process and mix an audio recording. The theory of recording and mixing will be delivered in year one with practical coursework in year two.

Coursework: One multitrack recording chosen from a list of 10 artists provided by the exam board, total time between 3 – 3 ½ minutes.

20%

Component 2

Technology-based Composition - coursework

Composition will be delivered across both years and will focus on creating, editing, manipulating and structuring sounds to produce a technology-based composition.

Coursework: One technology-based composition in response to 1 of 3 briefs set by the exam board, total time 3 minutes.

20%

Component 3

Listening and Analysing - written exam

The history of music technology will be explored throughout the course by listening to a wide range of commercial recordings from the 1940s to date.

The exam will be a combination of short answers and longer essays in response to a number of audio tracks.

25%

Component 4

Producing and Analysing - practical exam

The preparation for this exam will take place across both years and will focus on identifying and resolving issues with given audio and MIDI material.

35%

St Brendan’s has a well-equipped Music Suite that includes:

Extensive practice facilities

A Logic Pro X based recording studio and related equipment including a professional range of microphones

Instruments including a grand piano, Hammond organ, guitars, drums, keyboards etc

Computer Suite with relevant music software for sequencing including Logic Pro, Kontakt Komplete, Melodyne

A one‑off studio fee of approximately £30 is payable at the start of the second year to cover the cost of hiring professional session musicians for recording coursework.

Students must also be prepared to invest in a set of professional headphones for classroom and studio work, typically costing between £30 and £150. Staff can advise on suitable models.

Students who qualify for the College Bursary Scheme may receive support to cover some or all of these costs.

Music Technology can be studied alongside a wide range of other subjects.

This course supports progression into:

University courses in music technology and production

Careers in music production, sound engineering and related industries

Students benefit from enrichment opportunities including:

Recording and mixing live performances

Collaboration with practical musicians

Working across music and performing arts projects