16-18 Courses, 16-18: A Levels

Music Performance (Level 3 Extended Certificate)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

GCSE Average Points Score: 4.3, Grade 4 English Language GCSE, Grade 4 Maths GCSE

Course information

The aim of the course is to develop the student all-round musicianship and to give them a solid foundation in music ensemble and solo performance.

The units are likely to be as follows:

  • Music Performance:  Students plan, prepare and deliver a musical performance from start to finish
  • Music Composition: Students explore music theory and its application through composition. They will use music technology to produce a composition in response to a given brief
  • Music Project: Students organise internal and external gigs, taking care of marketing as well as managing the front of house, backstage and technical elements
  • Solo Performance: Students explore the preparation and performance of music as a soloist before performing in front of an audience
  • Music Ensembles: Students will work as part of a musical ensemble and develop their skills and techniques in rehearsal and performance

This BTEC is equivalent to one A Level and is therefore taken alongside two or three other A Levels or BTEC equivalents to make a full study programme. Most courses combine well with this subject, but Media, Drama and other performance subjects go particularly well.

  • How you are assessed

    100% internally assessed coursework
  • Next steps

    Two year Level 3 BTEC course of 4x 70min lessons per week (equivalent to 1 A Level); subject to the successful completion of a Certificate (equivalent to 0.5 A Levels) in the first year.
  • Why study at NCC?

    The BTEC in Music Performance is a combination of practical and theoretical work. You need to be prepared to work hard and be committed to performing in a group and as a soloist. You need to have an interest in a wide range of musical styles, especially pop music from the 1950s through to the present day. You will be expected to perform in organised gigs, shows and recording projects and you will be expected to practice regularly, taking lessons in your instrument or voice as part of your development. Composition and marketing/promotion in the music industry are also studied on this course.

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What Can This Course Lead To

Progress to university, further study or employment.

Students can progress to higher education courses or university degrees in music and music-related courses or they can go directly to work or an apprenticeship in the industry. With the UCAS points gained, there are also many other possible higher education options available to students that are not directly related to music. Former students have gone on to careers in the music industry and also in areas such as media, film and television, acoustics, and events/music management.

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Financial Support

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