Music Technology

BTEC NATIONAL EXTENDED CERTIFICATE in digital Music production

Who is this qualification for?

Equivalent to one A Level, this course is aimed at students who share a passion for both music and technology. Music GCSE is not a pre-requisite, as much of the course material will not have been covered at GCSE anyway. Students considering this course should have a real enjoyment for listening to music. The composition and creation of music involved will not require students to play an instrument, however, being familiar with a keyboard will help. A good aptitude for learning new technology is essential.

Course Content

The course consists of five units, of which two are mandatory and one is external. Mandatory content (50%). External assessment (33%)

Mandatory Units

Music for sound and media

Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) production

Optional units include…

• Creative synthesis and sampling - creating new sounds and using sound samples

• Remixing and reworking - creating a new version of an existing song

• Mixing and mastering techniques - processing music for clarity and strength

• Commercial music production. - writing and producing music for release

What could this qualification lead to?

This qualification will prepare learners for direct employment in the digital music production sector and is suitable for those wanting to work in entry-level roles, such as:

• junior music producer

• remixer

• junior sound designer

• music studio assistant

• assistant audio restorer/digitiser/archiver.

There are many roles in this sector where recruitment is at graduate level. The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to meeting admission requirements for many relevant courses. For example, if taken alongside A Levels in music and business studies, or a BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in a relevant field of study, such as music or digital games design and development, it could lead to a:

• BA (Hons) in Music Technology and Production

• BA (Hons) in Sound Arts and Design • BA (Hons) in Digital Music and Sound Arts

• BSc (Hons) in Music and Sound Production Technology.

Learners may also progress to a higher or degree apprenticeship. Learners should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes with specific higher education providers.