The BTEC Music Technology course introduces students to some of the skills and techniques required by the studio musician, whether as a composer, a performer, a producer or a sound engineer. The course centers on the use of recording equipment and music software and is a very practical course compared to A-Levels. Students are encouraged to gain an understanding of the historical impact of Music Technology on recording, and to listen to a range of contemporary music, recognising and assessing how musicians use music technology in the world of today. The course is also supported by visiting performers, workshops and external visits.
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including a 4 in English Language. It is normally expected that students will be proficient on at least one instrument and/or vocals. Students will be at an advantage if they have some experience of recording or using music production software.
BTECs are coursework based qualifications. Coursework briefs are based on real-life work-based case studies, scenarios and projects. This course is assessed internally. Pass, merit or distinction grades can be achieved for each unit. The final qualification grade will be based on the average performance in each unit.
Grades achieved are Pass, Merit, Distinction
Keep up to date with emerging issues with the Music Industry. Try reading articles in Sound on Sound/Music Technology magazine so that you are aware of music production processes and how they are developing. There are also many interesting documentaries on BBC4 which you can watch via the iPlayer.
Across the course, learners will complete some of the following units:
| 1. | Studio Recording Techniques | Learners will learn about different types of recording equipment, the setting-up of audio equipment for a recording session and the capturing of multitrack recordings |
| 2. | Digital Audio Workstation Production | Learners will develop an understanding of how a digital audio workstation (DAW) can be used creatively to produce music, manipulate audio and mix music. |
| 3. | Live Sound | Learners will learn about the equipment requirements for a range of venues and progress to set-up, test and operate equipment for a range of contrasting material including rock gigs, concerts and drama productions. |
| 4. | Working & Developing as a Production Team | Learners will develop an understanding of the collaborative process by which a music recording project is carried out. Students will create portfolio CD containing recordings which they have engineered, mastered and produced. |
| 5. | Music & Sound for Media | Learners explore the production of the music, sound and effects that are used for media products such as games, films and apps. |
| 6. | Remixing & Reworking | Learners will explore and carry out the skills required to create effective remixes and reworks of existing musical material. |
| 7. | Creative Synthesis & Sampling | Learners will explore the creative functions of synthesisers and samplers in making music and sound design. |
| 8. | Mixing & Mastering Techniques | This unit aims to give learners the skills to mix and master a DAW project to a professional standard. |
We run a stimulating, lively, energetic department in which experienced and enthusiastic staff set high standards both in examination achievements and in music-making activities.
Facilities:
Music Technology combines well with many subjects, such as Maths, Media Studies, Physics and performing arts subjects. It is also ideal as a subject to be taken alongside Music.
There are a vast number of degree courses specialising in different aspects of Music Technology, including courses in composition for film, TV and video games, computer software and music production, recording, sound manipulation and the management of music businesses. Most of these courses lead directly into specialised careers.
Most of our students progress to top universities or conservatoires to continue their study of Music Technology. Our BTEC students have been awarded offers on the Tonmeister course at Surrey University. This prestigious course is widely considered to be the best sound engineering course in the world.
In 2020, the Music Industry contributed £5.8 billion to the UK economy, generated £2.9 billion in export revenue and ensured 197168 full time jobs were sustained