About the course
Looking to take a gap year before uni, or still in the process of making plans? Love making and/or performing music? This course could be the answer you've been looking for.
The course is about you, and your long term career plans. Our aim is to provide you with a strong platform for employment within the live performance industry, whether that is as an independent artist, a session musician, a producer, teacher or performing as part of a function band - you decide your path, and we support you along the way.
Entry requirements
This course is open to applicants who are 18 and over.
Level 3 vocational qualification with a minimum of a Merit grade / 3 A-levels A*-C.
Applicants will be interviewed and will undergo an audition prior to a place being offered.
Do not be put off if you haven't studied music at Level 3, we'll assess individual circumstances during the interview.
Qualifications
You will complete the course with a UAL 'Level 4 Professional Diploma in Performance' qualification which carries the same weight as the first year of a Honours degree. If you are 18 when the course starts, and you do not have a grade C / 4 in Maths or English prior to the course commencing, you will be required to study these subjects in addition to the main qualification.
What you'll learn (core modules)
The course will focus on the development of professional rehearsal and performance techniques; all of which is underpinned by theory and expectations from the industry.
You will be given challenging projects to work towards, encompassing different scenarios and genres, ensuring that you develop as a rounded and versatile professional. We spend the first half term getting to know you, then use the remainder of the course to develop your own artistic identity which is then explored through a large final project.
You will focus on employment opportunities to monetise your skills, supported by key business and marketing tools for working musicians and producers. We work with you to hone your skills, ensuring you finish this course as a well-rounded, focussed professional.
How will I be assessed?
Your final grade for this course will be PASS, MERIT or DISTINCTION.
You will generate a portfolio of evidence to support your ongoing personal development. This will be supported by research and evaluative skills.
The final grade for the course is based upon a final project, that will involve considerable research and practical work. This could be a large scale recording project, a tour, a professional showcase/recital or a themed music event - the options for a final project will be discussed throughout the year, but it is 100% about you, and your aspirations.
Where will this course take me?
Following successful completion of the course, we have our BA (Hons) Degree in Commercial Music Production which some students to progress on to.
We ensure that everyone has a clear plan for progression on to further study or employment.
Our ex-students tour the world as musicians, sound engineers and event managers. We have other students who work as professional composers for games, film and TV as well as artists in their own right. A career in the industry is not unattainable, there are numerous opportunities out there - the music industry is showing continued growth and is currently valued at £4.1bn.
How much will it cost?
The course is free to anyone who is under 19 when the course starts. Anyone 19+ may apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.
I'm interested. What should I do now?
Learners will be required to provide their own instrument and accessories. There will be numerous performance opportunities that will require access to transport outside of timetabled hours.
If you would like to find out more, please come along to one of our open events published on the college website or call the main college line.
Days & times
Starting 03/09/2025