BTEC/Pearson HNC Music – Level 4
OVERVIEW
The BTEC Higher National qualifications in Music are aimed at students wanting to continue their education through applied learning. Higher Nationals provide a wide-ranging study of music and are designed for students who wish to pursue or advance their career in music.
In addition to the knowledge, understanding and skills that underpin the study of the music industry, Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals in Music give students experience of the breadth and depth of the sector that will prepare them for further study or training.
To apply for this course, you will need to submit your application via UCAS.
Click here to applyThis course requires students to have a Level 3 qualification, preferably in a related subject, and a performance ability of Grade 6 minimum. Audition required.
- BTEC Level 3 in Music
- Other related Level 3 qualifications may be considered
- UCAS Tariff Points: Minimum 48 points from a qualification equivalent to an Extended Diploma.
Not Accepted: Access to Higher Education Diplomas
Performance Ability:
- Grade 6 minimum (instrumental or vocal)
- Audition required
GCE Advanced Level (A-Levels):
- A GCE A-Level profile showing:
Strong performance in a relevant subject, or
Adequate performance in more than one subject
Likely to be supported by GCSE grades A–C / 9–4*, especially in Maths and English
GCSEs:
- Maths and English: Grade A*–C / 9–4 or equivalent (Assessed further during interview)
- Functional Skills: Also assessed in the interview (not a standalone requirement but may support application)
Other Qualifications or Experience:
- International equivalents of all the above
- Related work experience may be considered
Assessment involves a variety of methods, including case studies, observations or practical work, assignments, time-constrained assessments, and work-based projects.
All outcomes of your program are evaluated, and each unit below will be graded as pass, merit, or distinction. A pass is awarded for meeting all specified assessment criteria, while merit and distinction grades are given for higher-level achievements.
Units include:
- Unit 1 The Music Industry
- Unit 2 Marketing and Promotion for Musicians
- Unit 3 Professional Development
- Unit 13 Recording Technology
- Unit 21 The Evolution of the Instrument
- Unit 22 Applied Music Theory
- Unit 23 Performance
- Unit 24 Instrumental Technique
Students can progress from the General pathway at Level 4 to HND Music (Session Musician pathway).
You will gain industry experience by performing in numerous shows both internally in our performance venue as well as externally at music venues around the borough.
Each year you will get the chance to tour playing venues in Scotland and England such as Cavern Club in Liverpool. We have also regularly visited and recorded in Abbey Road Studios in London as part of the course.*
Throughout the year, we have many workshop and masterclass opportunities with professional musicians from the industry. Recently we have had Steve White (Paul Weller, The Who and Oasis), John Waugh (The 1975) and Yolanda Charles (Mick Jagger, Robbie Williams, and Nicole Scherzinger) into the department to chat and play for the students.
*Students will be expected to contribute a small fee to the cost of the Cavern Club, Liverpool performance as part of their performance assessment.
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