A Level Music Technology

The Music Technology courses aim 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. You may have had the opportunity to produce music as a part of your GCSE course or you may simply have a genuine, keen interest in music as a performer. A degree of practical instrumental skill is extremely helpful. Whatever your background, if you are keen to develop your musical/technical skills to learn about arranging, composing, recording and producing music, Music Technology could be the ideal course for you. Music Technology is a good companion for Music, Media Studies, Theatre Studies, Information and Communication Technology, Maths and Physics.

What will I study?

The subject content for A-Level Music Technology is divided into four components:

1) Recording
2) Technology-based composition
3) Listening and Analysing
4) Producing and Analysing

Component 1 – Recording
You will study the production tools and techniques to capture, edit, process and mix an audio recording. You will submit one recording chosen from a list of 10 songs provided, consisting of a minimum of five compulsory instruments and two additional instruments

Non-examined assessment: externally assessed
20% of the A-level


Component 2 – Technology-based composition
You will learn skills connected with creating, editing, manipulating and structuring sounds to produce a technology-based composition.

You will submit one technology-based composition chosen from three briefs. Synthesis and sampling/audio manipulation and creative effects use must be included.

Non-examined assessment: externally assessed
20% of the A-Level

Component 3 – Listening and Analysing
You will gain knowledge and understanding of recording and production techniques and principles related to three areas of study:
Recording and production techniques for both corrective and creative purposes
Principles of sound and audio technology
The development of recording and production technology

Assessment: 1½ -hour written examination
25% of the A-level

Component 4 – Producing and Analysing
You will learn editing, mixing and production techniques, to be applied to unfamiliar materials provided in the examination.

You will show you can apply this knowledge in relation to two of the areas of study:
Recording and production techniques for both corrective and creative purposes
Principles of sound and audio technology.

Written/practical examination: 2 hours 15 minutes (plus 10 minutes setting–up time)
35% of the A-Level

Music Technology Extras
Built into the course, there are opportunities to support and run live gigs in the local area, including arts festivals and community arts projects within catchment. You will also benefit from partnerships with The Junction and local studios such as Half-Ton Studios and Vertical Rooms.
It is assumed that those taking A-level will wish to contribute significantly to the many production opportunities organised by the music department and to experience live events elsewhere. The music department will make arrangements for you to attend numerous professional concerts in London and Cambridge throughout the year and to participate in workshops led by Cambridge University Outreach. You will be encouraged to participate in the well-established exchange with Modelleschule Obersberg, Bad Hersfeld, Germany, undertaking ongoing, joint online composition and research projects.

Minimum Entry Requirements:

5 x 5s

4 in English and Maths

Subject Specific 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 I do with Music Technology after sixth form?

The skills developed during this course can find use in a wide range of careers that may include sound recording, media music production, composition, radio, television and the film industry, commercial advertising, musical instrument retail, software design, teaching and journalism. There is an ever increasing number of degree courses at universities and music colleges specialising in music technology that can lead directly to the career options mentioned above, including some where music technology can be combined with a range of other subjects.