Course Type

BTEC

Exam Board

Pearson

Assessment Type

Exam, Controlled assessment and Coursework

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at grade four or above in different subjects, including English and Maths and have a secure instrumental or vocal ability. 

Course Overview

This course is split into 4 components.

Component 1 - Coursework: Practical Music Theory and Harmony

The purpose of this unit is to give students a working knowledge of music theory and harmony and how it is applied in practical musical activities.  Students will develop their understanding of the elements of music, music notation, scales and chord progressions. They will complete a composition or arrangement and produce a musical score that can be effectively realised or interpreted in a performance situation. 

Component 2 - Exam: Professional Practice in the Music Industry

The purpose of this unit is to give students an understanding of the professional skills that musicians require to succeed in the music industry, including financial management, effective interpersonal skills and working with others.  The examination will assess students' ability to plan, budget, rationale, and presentation in response to music industry scenarios which musicians might find themselves bidding for. 

Component 3 - Controlled Assessment:  Ensemble Music Performance

This unit will assess students' ability to rehearse and perform as part of a musical ensemble.  Students will prepare a repertoire of pieces throughout the course and perform them to an audience.  They will prepare a presentation on how they used different techniques, stylistic features and musical elements in the pieces they performed. 

Component 4 - Coursework: Solo Performance 

This unit will allow students to explore practice and specific skills required for a soloist, such as how to engage your audience and stagecraft.  Students will prepare a programme of repertoire of their choice and after careful creative reflections, they will carry out a live performance in front of an audience.  

Where will it lead?

This course could lead on to higher education music courses and employment within the music industry.