Music Performance & Production Extended Diploma Level 3
The Extended Diploma in Music Performance & Production, equivalent to three A Levels, is a practical route into a career in music. The course provides opportunities to develop the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to work in the music industry.
Students will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations/activities and demands.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSE subjects at grade 4 or above including English and/or Maths.
Students will be required to demonstrate instrumental playing or singing skills and musical knowledge sufficient to undertake a Level 3 Music course. In addition, a relevant Level 2 Diploma will also be considered as part of the entry requirement.
What will I study?
All students will take the following units:
- Principles of Music Performance and Production
- Critical Listening and Music Composition
- Music Industry and Professional Practice
- Critical and Contextual Awareness for Music Performance and Production
- Music Production in Context
- Music Performance in Context
- Preparation for Specialist Study in Music Performance and Production Unit
- Collaborative Music Performance Project
- Developing Music Performance and Production Skills
- Exploration of Specialist Study in Music Performance and Production
- Preparing for Progression in Music Performance and Production
- Project Proposal for Extended Project in Music Performance and Production
- Extended Project in Music Performance and Production
Method of delivery
You will typically be in College three days per week. All units will be taught in a classroom/workshop environment.
How will I be assessed?
Students are assessed on a regular basis throughout the course, completing assignments which include both practical assignments and written work. Assessment is through course work and assignments. There is no formal written exam.
Good course combinations
This is a full-time course. It is not possible to combine this course with other Vocational, Apprenticeship or A Level programmes.
Your next steps
Many of our students go on to study Music or related subjects at degree level including Music Performance, Song Writing, Live Sound Engineering, Studio Production, Composition or Music Events Management. The course is broad enough for students to go onto university to study related subjects such as Media, Theatre Studies or Journalism. Others go into the industry as performers, studio engineers, stage managers, backline technicians, composers, promoters or managers. Many career opportunities exist within cultural industries, media and other disciplines within the arts.
Students have gone on to study at a wide range of institutions, such as Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts, The Royal Northern College of Music, Leeds College of Music, York St John University, University of Manchester and Brighton Institute of Modern Music.
“I chose this course as I wanted to build on my knowledge and carry on studying Music. I tried sixth form but decided that the environment wasn’t for me and I wanted something new, so decided to study Music at York College. My tutors are really supportive and are always willing to help me with my work, and I can tell that they really want me to achieve my goals.”