A Level Music Technology

Why study Music Technology?

This course aims to develop the knowledge and skills required for the production of music (mainly focused on popular and jazz genres) using MIDI sequencing and studio recording techniques. Students who study A-Level Music Technology may have had the opportunity to produce music as a part of a GCSE course or they may simply have a genuine, keen interest in music as a performer. A degree of practical instrumental skill is extremely helpful, but students often have a range of backgrounds. This course will develop individual musical/technical skills including arranging, composing, recording and producing music.

What will I study?

A-Level Music Technology is divided into four components:

• Component 1: Recording (20%
• Component 2: Technology-based composition (20%)
• Component 3: Listening and Analysing (25%)
• Component 4: Producing and Analysing (35%)

Component 1: Recording

You will use production tools and techniques to capture, edit, process and mix an audio recording of a song from a list of 10 songs provided by the exam board.

Component 2: Technology-based composition

You will compose music in response to a brief set by the exam board, employing music technology to enable you to create, edit, manipulate and structure your own composition.

Component 3: Listening and Analysing

You will develop knowledge of recording and production techniques, the principles of sound and audio technology, and a broader understanding of the development of recording and production technology.

Component 4: Producing and Analysing

You will develop knowledge and understanding of editing, mixing and production techniques, and will apply these techniques to correct and creatively enhance unfamiliar recorded material.

Music Technology Extras

There will be visits to professional recording studios, and the opportunity to learn from a number of practitioners who work creatively in the music industry and composers, engineers, and producers.

Minimum Entry Requirements:

5 x 5s

4 in English and Maths

Subject Entry Requirements:

None

* Please note that Level 2 vocational courses are the equivalent of 1 GCSE and only 1 will be counted towards the A-Level pathway entry requirements

What can Music Tech lead to?

A-Level Music technology will enable students to pursue a related university course. It can also directly lead onto a number of highly creative and technical careers in the music industry and related creative industries. This qualification would also help students to develop a range of transferable skills, both technical and creative.