Music Performance level 2 (Music Industry Skills - Performance)

This course offers a very practical approach to what is involved in being a modern musician. You will learn the skills and knowledge you need to pursue a career in the modern music industry. If you are aged 16 to 18, you will be enrolled on a study programme. This will include retaking GCSEs or undertaking Functional Skills in English and maths if you haven't already achieved a grade 4 or above. You will take part in activities that help you to develop your personal skills, such as building your character and confidence. This will help you to live well and move into your chosen career. If you are 16-19 years old these activities will be timetabled as will work experience and placement. You can also choose to take part in other activities. For other age groups, activities will be tailored to your needs.

The course is highly practical and centres around teaching you the underpinning elements of being a Performing Musician. During the year you receive small-group tuition on your main instrument, which will then feed your assessed band rehearsals and performances and your instrumental skills development. You will also study units on the history of popular music, the music business, music technology, musicianship, composition and songwriting. You will take part in recording sessions in our high-spec studios with the music technology students and take part in local gigs at city centre venues including the college's Sue Townsend Theatre. You will need to commit to at least five hours practice on your instrument in your own time each and every week, this is vital for you as a musician. The course is highly practical and centres around teaching you the underpinning elements of being a Performing Musician. During the year you receive small-group tuition on your main instrument, which will then feed your assessed band rehearsals and performances and your instrumental skills development. You will also study units on the history of popular music, the music business, music technology, musicianship, composition and songwriting. You will take part in recording sessions in our high-spec studios with the music technology students and take part in local gigs at city centre venues including the college's Sue Townsend Theatre. You will need to commit to at least five hours practice on your instrument in your own time each and every week, this is vital for you as a musician.

Assessment is via coursework completed over the year. You will need to evidence in your work that your skills and understanding are sufficient to pass each unit or achieve higher grades. Examples of assessment include performances at gigs, instrumental demonstrations, reports, compositions and presentations. We use a broad range of assessment to give students a wide experience and develop skills that will be useful in industry.

Entry to this course requires four GCSEs at grade 3 (D) including English (essential) and maths (desirable). You will be required to provide one reference and it is desirable that you can demonstrate 90% attendance at your last place of work or study. You will be invited to attend a welcome event where you will participate in an audition to show that you are at a suitable level on your instrument: this is to support your careers choice and ensure that we place you on the right programme for you. Consideration will be given to all applicants over the age of 19 who do not hold formal English and maths qualifications.

Progression is possible onto the Music Performance or Music Technology Extended Diploma level 3, depending on whether you wish to continue as a performer or pursue a more technical route. You may also progress into related employment in the music industry. This could include work as a session musician, tribute bands, or teaching (with additional experience).