Music Practice

Overview

Introduction

This course is ideal for students who would like to find out more about the music industry. It offers a practical introduction to life and work in the music industry.

Qualification

BTEC Level 1/2 Tech Award

Awarding body

Pearson Edexcel

Course leader

Mr G Hydes

Assessment

• Examination: 20%
  • Component 3: Externally set task | 3 hours | 20%
• Non-examined assessment: 80%
  • Component 1: 36 guided learning hours | 30% Component 2: 36 guided learning hours | 30% Component 3: 45 guided learning hours | 20%

Curriculum

Course content

Component 1: Exploring music products and styles

In this component, students develop their understanding of different types of music products and the techniques used to create them. They explore how musical elements, technology and other resources are used in the creation, production and performance of music. They also practically explore the key features of different styles of music and music theory and apply their knowledge and understanding to developing their own creative work.

Component 2: Music skills development

In this component, students participate in workshops and classes where they develop technical, practical, personal and professional skills and specialise in at least two of the following areas: music performance, creating original music, music production. Throughout their development, they review their progress and consider how to make improvements.

Component 3: Responding to a music brief

Students begin by exploring the brief and investigating possible responses and ideas to meet the demands of the brief. Using relevant resources, skills and techniques they then develop and refine musical material before presenting their final response. They develop and present an original creation based on a piece from a given list and a style from a choice of four. They then present this as a solo or group performance, an audio recording or a digital audio workstation (DAW) project. Students also consider how their skills and interests make them suitable for the specific music sector opportunity.

Skills and requirements

Skills required

• A love and enthusiasm for the subject.

Skills covered include:

• Listening and analysis of musical styles.
• Performance and composition skills related to specific musical styles.
• Use of music technology (DAW) and production skills.
• Developing personal and musical skills independently and collaborating with others.
• Planning and preparing musical products and responding to musical project briefs.

Beyond the classroom

Future pathways

The choices made post-16 depend on the overall level of attainment and performance. Students who generally achieve at level 2 across their key stage 4 learning might progress to A-levels, level 3 vocational qualifications such as a BTEC National in music or music technology. This prepares students to enter employment or apprenticeships, or to move on to higher education by studying for a degree in music or employment in the music sector.