Course details may be subject to change.
This music course forms part of a two year programme that will prepare you for work within the music industry by developing your technical and practical skills. Undertaking a work placement in a relevant area, and engaging in multiple live performances, will provide you with essential valuable skills.
You will become aware of the influencers of popular music across the ages, and will develop your own performance style.
Studying the first and second year of this course will also prepare you for progression to study a degree level course at New College Durham's University Centre or at university.
Entry Criteria
You will hold four GCSEs at grade 4 (or equivalent), including maths and English.
This course is accessible to applicants of all ages who possess suitable experience and ability.
Additional Costs
You will need to own and maintain musical equipment and instruments, including a first study instrument and necessary accessories.
What are the next steps?
You will meet with a course tutor in our Music Department which is on the first floor of the Music & Sport building.
Please come prepared with a short piece of music demonstrating your technical ability.
This will be followed by an informal discussion regarding scales and rudiments as they pertain to your instrument or voice.
Study Aims
The course is designed to stretch and challenge those who are looking to progress into a career in the industry. It is an opportunity to develop your instrumental skill and repertoire, in group and solo contexts. You will apply and refine your audio awareness across a range of popular music genres, and will study and analyse the influence of popular music across the ages.
This highly practical qualification will allow you to explore, develop and test your creativity. You will be provided with the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to progress to degree level study or employment. You will create song writing portfolios, audio and MIDI projects using Logic Pro X.
Modules Studied
You will study the following units:
- Music Performance Techniques
- Working and Developing as a Musical Ensemble
- Sequencing Systems and Techniques
- Contemporary Song Writing Techniques
- Aural Perception Skills
- Solo Music Performance Skills
- The Sound and Music Industry
- Pop Music in Practice.
Teaching and Assessment
Assessment is carried out on a continuous basis and the course is delivered through a series of practical projects and assignments, including public performances.
The assignments will be both practical and theoretical throughout the year and you will be expected to set targets and make a record of this. Performance-based modules will be assessed through live performances in professional music venues, such as the Gala Theatre and the College’s Drama Studio. Aural perception skills will focus on skills tests in pitch and rhythm.
Industry Links
We are very proud of the strong industry links we hold. Our established link with the Gala Theatre in Durham ensures you are provided with the opportunity to perform in a professional environment.
Our tutors are practicing professionals who have links with professional venues, studios, producers, theatre companies, musical directors and agencies.
Placement
You will be encouraged to pursue a work placement to get experience working in a relevant area. Previous students have successfully secured placements in local radio stations, live music venues, recording and rehearsal studios, and shadowing music teachers in either a classroom or stage school setting.
You could progress to FdA Roots and Popular Music at New College Durham, or a relevant subject at university.
