In the senior phase your Music Technology will be split into 2 elements:
Portfolio - made up of 2 projects utilising your Music Technology skills you can produce 2 from the following:
Radio Broadcast
Audiobook
Multitrack Recording
Live Performance Recording
Film Foley
Sound Design for Video Games
Listening (20th & 21st Century Music)
Transferrable Skills for Employability
This subject is a fantastic choice for those who aim to develop the following skills sought after by employers:
Technology skills (This subject offers hands on experience with technology. Most, if not all, employers use some form of technology)
Problem solving skills (problem solving skills are a must for any career)
Listening skills
Working as a team
Creativity
Entry Requirements
S3, N4, or N5 Music is recommended but not a must.
Pathways
Video Game Design or similar courses are currently offered at:
Abertay University
Edinburgh Napier University
Glasgow Caledonian University
Glasgow School of Art
Heriott Watt University
SEA Institute
University of the Highlands and Islands
The University of the West of Scotland.
Video Game graduates have found employment at companies such as Rockstar Games, PlayStation, Solus, Spartan Solutions Ltd, Voice Technologies and Eureka Solutions. Games Development graduates have also started their own independent games studios and have found success working freelance.
Sound or Audio Engineer- musical professional who records sound at live events. They run sound checks, adjust volume levels and balance the sound for the performance. They also operate and maintain sound equipment. They also operate equipment during studio recordings and perfect the audio's sound afterward. They might record sounds for music, video games, films or television. They ensure the final track meets an artist's vision by blending instruments, cleaning audio and fixing track levels.
Musician- works in the entertainment industry. Records or performs music. They often work with other musicians, collaborate with producers, and perform at events. Some musicians also compose their own songs and write lyrics.
Music Manager- responsible for helping an artist or band build their career. They help the artist define their sound, make industry connections, book concerts and tours, build an audience and collaborate with other artists. They may also negotiate contracts, set up interviews and public appearances and help develop a branding strategy. Managers earn money by taking a cut of whatever their artist makes.
Video Editor- trim and arrange video footage and audio tracks to tell a story. Responsibilities include adjusting volume levels, removing noise from audio tracks, choosing music and adding sound effects.
Events Manager- responsible for scheduling, marketing and coordinating events like concerts, trade shows and performances. They often set up and take down equipment, signage and technology. They might also hire vendors, caterers and write contracts.
DJ (disc joecky)- play music on radio shows and at nightclubs, events, parties and concerts. They also choose music, create playlists and mix tracks using turntables and soundboards. They usually develop personas and entertain the audience.
Extra Curricular Opportunities
Pupils may experience helping the school during performances, concerts, etc by adjusting mic levels, etc. in the sound box (in the theatre). This experience can look great on personal statements and CVs.
Here is an example of course work. This is a radio broadcast and is the type of thing you could create as one of your National 5 projects.