Music Performance and Production - UAL Level 2 Diploma

Do you play an instrument (or sing!) and interested in studying music or working in the music industry? If so, our UAL diplomas in music are perfect for you!

The Level 2 course is a one year course and is designed for students to develop their confidence and skills in preparation for the Level 3 course. This year gives the students hands on experience in some of the practical and theoretical aspects of the music industry and also gives students the opportunity to improve in their instrument to ensure they are at Level 3 standard by the end of the course. It also gives students a chance to obtain their Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths as these are part of the entry requirements for Level 3.

Applicants are expected to have already undertaken tuition for their instrument or voice prior to applying for the course. Although we do not require gradings we will offer the most suitable level of course following interview.
At this time we are a performance and production course and are not able to offer places to aspiring DJs or applicants that do not play an instrument/sing.

You will work in groups and individually to prepare music for performances and recording. The music you perform will be decided in agreement with the tutor and you will be encouraged to perform different genres, often through cover versions. Gigs take place each term in various college venues, while rehearsal and recording takes place in the music area of the Creative Studios building.

In addition to the performance aspects of the course, research projects are focused on developing your understanding of the context of various genres of music. This will prepare you for the challenges of making a living in the music industry. These projects are assessed through written assignments and presentations. We also encourage video evidence of rehearsals and evaluation.

CWA has some of the best equipped recording studios in the region and there are plenty of opportunities for you to get hands-on experience in our two recording studios. All of the rehearsal rooms and recording studios are equipped with a drum kit, guitar amplifiers and PA system. We also have piano, other electronic keyboards and various percussion instruments. You are encouraged to bring your own instruments wherever it is practical.

You will also have the chance to become familiar with music sequencing in our classroom, which features computers equipped with MIDI keyboards and Reaper sequencing software. Here you will also be encouraged to experiment with techniques for music composition.

Our highest profile success in recent years is the band Deaf Havana, whose original members Chris Pennells and Tom Ogden studied music at the college.

The work on these courses is project/assignment based and assessment is continuous throughout. The work will be a mixture of theory and practical.

The units in the first two terms are assessed at Pass grade only. The final unit is awarded a grade of Pass, Merit or Distinction.

You will need:

• A minimum of 4 GCSEs at grade 3 or higher, including English, maths and preferably music

Or

• A relevant Level 1 qualification at Merit or Distinction standard studied at CWA or another further education provider
• English and maths GCSEs at grade 3 or higher

It is recommended that you also have some theory and knowledge of practical exams, however, we will accept applications from all interested parties.

You will be invited to an informal interview to help ensure the course is right for you. An audition piece will need to be prepared prior to the interview ready to perform for the course director. This need be no longer than 2 minutes and can consist of either singing or playing an instrument. We have most instruments on site (drums, keyboard, guitars) however you may wish to bring your own for the interview. You will also undertake a short music theory quiz to assess your level.