Music Performance and Songwriting Extended Diploma Level 3

Quick facts

Is it for me?

This heavily practical course is focused on music performance and songwriting and is aimed at students who wish to grow their skills and professionalism as a musician, songwriter, and performer. You will learn a range of skills to help support your musical careers, such as music production, application of music theory, and visual design. You will undergo a mixture of band and solo work throughout the course, with a high percentage of students progressing their acts outside of college.  
We will explore the music industry and teach you the necessary tools to develop you into a well-rounded and versatile musician with an understanding of employment avenues within the industry.   
It is strongly suggested that you already have some kind of performance experience and have worked with other musicians before. 
There are numerous opportunities to compose music for projects, perform in the local community and attend a variety of music events throughout the year. 

What you'll learn

Year 1 
You will explore and develop key compositional and performance skills. You will apply these to a variety of projects and performances throughout the year.  
We give you creative freedom and encourage you to explore and experiment with music performance, composition, songwriting and artistic identity whilst developing core music theory, listening and analysing skills.  
Each project can be tailored to your musical growth, style, and aspirations with clear aims for developing your practical skills and understanding of the music industry.  
This is a time to find your feet, establish your performances, gain an understanding of the ever-changing music industry, and start applying it to your future career.  
Year 2 
In year two, there will be a strong focus on industry and careers. Applying music business skills inside or outside of college is a key focal point throughout your careers and business lessons.  
There will be more performance opportunities through Digital Saint gigs throughout the year, 'Live Lounge' style recording sessions, and opportunities outside of college.  
We will continue to encourage exploration and experimentation of music performance and composition throughout live performance workshops and advanced composition classes.  
You will explore lots of career paths; from Foley and sound design to backline tech and community music – all of which will give you additional skills and knowledge which will help you grow as a musician and develop your implementation of professional practices. 
Any student who does not hold a GCSE at grade 9 to 4 or equivalent qualifications in maths and English by age 16 will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year. 

Industry insight into UAL Music Performance and Production

Tutors' insights into UAL Music Performance and Production

Students' insights into UAL Music Performance and Production

Equipment required for the course

You will be required to purchase high quality closed headphones (with a large jack end or an adaptor), a USB 3.0 memory stick/hard drive and stationery before the course starts. 
In addition, you will need to bring your music instrument with you for certain sessions, and this must be in full working order and regularly maintained (drums and keyboards are available at college). 
Access to a personal MacBook/Laptop and software is ideal, but not a necessity. 

Work experience placements

You will be required to undertake a range of work experience throughout the course which will predominantly be from live performances, both internal and within the local music scene. 

Assessment

There are now exams, however throughout the course you will generate a portfolio of evidence to show how you are developing as a proficient musician.  
You will be producing practical work including compositions, live performances and presentations alongside mood boards, evaluations and research documentation. 
Your grade for both years is based on a large project of your choosing. You work on this at the end of each year and so long as it fits within the boundaries of the qualification, this could anything from writing an EP or an album, arranging a large show or going on tour, to marketing and promoting yourself as a solo artist or band.

Further study

• Music Performance Professional Diploma Level 4
• BA (Hons) Commercial Music Production 

Example careers

• Musician
• Songwriter
• Event Manager
• Composer 
• Producer
• DJ  
• Recording Artist
• Sound Designer 
• Artist
• Session Musician
• Foley Artist
• Teacher
• Technician
• Film composer

Days & times

Starting September 2025