FdA Roots and Popular Music

To gain entry to the programme a student must satisfy the standard or non-standard entry requirements to the course. Candidates with non-standard entry applications will be considered on the basis of relevant work experience and attainment of skills, which demonstrate an ability to study at this level.

Non-standard entry applicants will display their knowledge and understanding of music in the interview.

Applications for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Recognition of Experiential Learning (RPEL) are welcomed in accordance with the College FDAP Academic Regulations. However, these must be discussed as part of the admissions process.

Candidates will be expected to hold a relevant level 2 qualification in English language and maths (or a minimum 5.5 IELTS in each band for international applicants).

You will need your own instrument for your first instrument of study. Much of the required equipment, such as PA systems, microphones, guitar and bass amps, drum kits, and keyboards are provided in the rehearsal rooms. We would advise you to invest in a laptop with music software and a music interface as past graduates have expressed that this is beneficial. Again, this is not compulsory as we are fully equipped in the department for you to complete assignment work.

You will perform two contrasting pieces of an appropriate standard. You will also be required to recite rudiments on your first study instrument. Please ensure you bring your instrument with you and be prepared to perform the pieces to demonstrate your performance skills. You will also be asked to demonstrate your knowledge of music theory both verbally and on your instrument.

The aims of the programme are to help you:

Foster your development of professional, creative, and practical outcomes in a supportive learning environment.

Enhance your musicianship and understanding of the skills and behaviours needed to succeed in the music industry.

Grow within a work-related context, gaining transferable and professional skills relevant to employment or further study in the creative industries.

Develop your intellectual skills by analysing arguments for and against contextual and industry-related topics through research, practical application, and case studies.

At Level 4:

Personal and Professional Development 1 - This module is designed to help you develop essential professional skills that will support a smooth transition into the music industry. You'll focus on building industry-ready skills and adopting professional practices that can be applied across different areas of the sector. By engaging in self-reflection, creating action plans, and providing evidence of your skills, you'll strengthen your professional abilities. This process is aimed at boosting your confidence in handling industry-related projects and navigating the complexities of professional practice, ultimately preparing you for a range of opportunities in the music industry.

Working in a Musical Ensemble - This module is designed to help you develop key rehearsal and performance techniques, explore roots music styles, and emulate authentic sonic traits. You'll achieve this through structured practice, rehearsals (where you'll work with written materials to enhance your musicianship and musical literacy), self-reflection, and practical workshops. The module will culminate in a public concert, where you'll perform the material you've developed in a professional venue to a live audience, including external stakeholders. This experience will help you adopt industry-standard behaviours and meet the expectations of a professional musician.

Writing and Arranging Roots and Popular Music - This module builds on your existing writing and arranging skills to encourage creative practice. You'll focus on becoming more versatile in your writing and arranging by understanding how songs are created. Drawing directly from the transferable skills you've gained in modules like The Language of Popular Music and Studio Production Techniques, you'll develop a strong knowledge of melody, harmony, and rhythm. Alongside this, you'll explore organic writing methods and creative production approaches to enhance your overall musical development.

Roots and Popular Music in Context 1 - This module gives you the chance to explore the contextual influences and development of popular music, focusing on British and Americana Roots. You'll examine the economic, sociological, political, and technological factors that shaped the first popular music, providing you with a deeper understanding of its origins and evolution.

Language of Popular Music - This module is designed to help you understand pitch, practical harmony, and rhythm, along with the terminology that surrounds them and how they relate to one another. You’ll learn to identify, create, and apply theoretical concepts in modern musical forms, including number/letter systems and standard notation. The aim is to develop your ability to use these tools effectively in your music.

Studio Production Techniques 1 - This module is designed to help you understand key production techniques, such as instrument selection, microphone placement, phase relationships, room configuration, polar patterns, gain staging, MIDI, and the use of effects for mixing and mastering recordings. You’ll explore these fundamental elements to develop a strong approach to studio production, learning to view the studio itself as an instrument for artistic expression.

Level 5:

Personal and Professional Development 2 - This module is designed to prepare you for the demands of the music industry by enhancing both your higher education and professional skills. You’ll develop critical thinking, analyse industry trends, compare research methods, and evaluate the transferable skills you've gained throughout your studies. The module also focuses on equipping you with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the freelance world, helping you build and sustain a successful career in the ever-changing music industry.

Music in Education - This module offers you the chance to gain first-hand experience in music education, build mentor relationships with FE students, and engage in community music practice. Through this, you'll not only develop valuable experience but also enhance your professional skills, opening up potential employment opportunities in the music sector.

Music Performance Project - This module will help you develop a strong understanding of all the roles involved in live performance, both on and off stage. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to the creation of several music events, showcasing the highest levels of musicianship and production, while gaining practical experience in organising and delivering live performances.

Roots and Popular Music in Context 2 - This module explores the complex relationship between music and society. Using established systems of social analysis, Roots and Popular Music in Context 2 will equip you with an understanding of music consumption and its social significance, helping you analyse how music reflects and influences cultural and societal trends.

Music Theory in Practice - This module focuses on applying music theory in practice. By exploring harmony, textures, and how to interpret written music, you'll gain an understanding of how to incorporate theory into every aspect of musical creation and performance, enhancing your overall musicianship.

Studio Production Techniques 2 - This module aims to equip you with the skills to design versatile melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic samples, and apply them in a commercially viable pop track. You’ll integrate creative production techniques and industry standards, culminating in the creation of a professional press pack to promote your work.

You will engage in the following:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• One-to-one tutorials
• Group tutorials
• Workshops
• Performance projects.]]] Management and organisation skills are essential for successful performing and recording musicians, therefore, you will be required to plan and manage your own projects, workshops and individual and ensemble sessions. Modules will be assessed through a combination of:[[[Recorded performances (sound and visual recordings as required)
• Portfolios
• Presentations
• Written reports
• Essays.

All of the above will be supplemented and further developed through the incorporation of visits from industry specialists. Research skills will be delivered and assessed via review and modelling of several analytical models. Students will be able to utilise personal reflection and evaluation feedback in order to assess themselves qualitatively. You will have access to several student support services, including Higher Education academic support, Personal Learning coaches and our Additional Learning support team.

A selection of employers and current practitioners working within the music and creative industries are involved in developing our higher education music courses. This includes music agencies, freelance performers and educators, singer-songwriters and artist managers. Our music department has established links with the Gala Theatre in Durham to provide you with opportunities to perform on the main stage as part of your core assessment. Your tutors are practising professionals who have links with professional venues, studios, producers, theatre companies, musical directors and agencies.

There are no formal placement requirements for the FdA Roots and Popular Music, however, students are encouraged to gain skills for the workplace.

You could progress to a relevant top-up degree programme at New College Durham, such as BA (Hons) top-up Popular Music, to gain a full honours degree.Alternatively, you could progress into employment as a musician or music educator. You will have the skills to choose to work self-employed.