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Music Technology

Music Technology is the study or the use of any device, mechanism, machine or tool by a musician or composer. This course has all the elements of Music Production including Recording and Producing, Live Sound and music making with a Digital Audio Workstation.

Why study Music Technology?

Do you see yourself as the live sound engineer for your favourite band? What about creating sound effects for the next big video game? How about recording and producing musicians in the recording studio? You should study Music Technology if you have an interest in the technical side of sound creation and music production.

What will I study?

We study the Pearson BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Music Technology (Sound Engineering) which is equivalent to one A-level and can be included alongside other A-Level/BTEC subjects.

The course includes a wide range of specialist units. Starting with an in depth look at the operation of the recording studio and the processes involved in creating a music product. Focusing upon the equipment needed, suitable microphone techniques, professional studio procedures and a unit dedicated to mixing and mastering techniques.

It also features a unit devoted to live sound engineering, that includes understanding the setting up and operation the equipment during a live performance. Along with the professionalism and teamwork required for a successful live music event.

The course also covers the use of sequencing software developing your skills to sequence and edit both MIDI and audio material. You will use DAW software to aid in music creation, production, and arrangement through specific sequencing techniques alongside learning the working of synthesisers and samplers to produce new sounds.

Which exam board & how will I be assessed?

Pearson

The course is primary internally assessed coursework, with an externally assessed 15-hour practical task at the end of the 2nd year.

Where could it take me?

Music technology has a wide range of progression routes including university and specialist further ed. degrees in music production, audio engineering, music for video games and acoustics.

Our alumni now hold sound engineering positions in some of the country’s top music venues, work as touring musicians or are working with musicians in recording studios around the country.

Subject combinations

The course combines very well with A-level Music and/or Music Performance BTEC. If you are looking to pursue music at a conservatoire or university, the course content if being seen as more and more valuable. Other creative subjects such as all Art and Media work well too. Some students have even combined with Maths and Physics to gone on and study acoustics.

What support is available?

The course is housed in the state-of-the-art media and performing arts centre. Music Technology is taught in a large DAW suite, with laptops available for mobile study all of which contain access to industry standard software packages. The music department also offers a second large music classroom, two practice rooms, a band room and two dedicated professional digital recording studios. All of which are soundproofed and fully equipped with access to excellent audio hardware and software.

What extracurricular activity is available?

Recent trips and visits have included visiting Tile Yard Studios in London along with trips to see the orchestra in Manchester. We put on a range of concerts and musicals each year both in our own theatre and at local venues such as The Old Courts. We encourage students to get involved as sound engineers, performers, conductors, and technicians.