What is it?
This is the perfect course for anyone who has a passion for popular music and the music industry. You will study solo and ensemble performance, music production and music theory. Through integrated music projects you will also learn about the music industry and how to plan for a successful career.
Why study this subject at Blackpool Sixth?
All your major performances at Blackpool Sixth will take place in external performance venues to live audiences. You will be part of our music agency and have a chance to be signed to our record label, thereby learning about all aspects of this exciting industry in a highly practical way.
What skills will I develop?
- Employability skills
- Real and relevant industry experience
- Project management
- Communication skills
- Collaborative working
- Independence
- Confidence
- Self-esteem
- Initiative
How will I be taught?
- Working for employers, in the music and entertainment industry
- Workshop sessions delivered by tutors and industry professionals
- Independent study and research
- Skill building in the rehearsal room
- Collaborative learning
How will I be assessed?
Students are assessed using a variety of methods which include in-college and external performances, practical and written assignments and by using technology.
Teacher expertise
All course tutors are vastly experienced musicians and teachers. They are working actively within the music industry and have developed many links to enable students to gain the best possible industry and employability experience, whilst gaining a high level qualification. Specialisms include performance, music production and recording, composing, arranging, directing ensembles, music theory, analysis and marketing/ promotion in the music industry. Students are also supported by a specialist team of technicians.
Field trips, projects and employability opportunities
The department has strong links with institutions such as Leeds College of Music and LIPA who regularly host and deliver industry workshops. Music students have numerous performance opportunities during the course including in-college and external gigs, concerts, roadshow events and large scale community projects. Students also have the opportunity to perform overseas on a concert tour.
Where does it lead?
The course will provide you with the skills needed to succeed within the music industry or to progress into higher education. The majority of our students go on to study at leading universities in the areas of popular music and music technology, including Leeds College of Music, LIPA, Salford University and BIMM. Many former students have successful careers in music performance and production, musical directing, teaching, events management, artists’ management and composing.
Equipment
Students are expected to provide their own instruments and jack leads (excluding drums/ keyboard) in order to participate in rehearsals and personal practice whilst in college. Vocalists will be expected to provide a microphone and lead. Students also require a pair of headphones/ earphones for when working with technology.
Specific requirements
Students must demonstrate instrumental/ vocal skills at Grade 4 equivalent standard. All students will take part in a practical audition, which will give you the chance to demonstrate their musical performance skills.
Examination board
Edexcel
What will I study?
During this two year course you will develop a wide range of relevant music industry skills, including:
- Live performance including developing as a soloist, a band musician and a session performer.
- Composition (popular music and composing using technology)
- Events management
- Audio/MIDI sequencing and music production
- Music theory and aural skills
- The music industry
- History of popular music and society
- Marketing and promotion