Music Performance Subsidiary Level 3 Diploma

Course Information

What does the course involve?

This course is designed to introduce students to specific skills in Music Performance. This qualification will give you an insight into the competitive world of music performance. You can choose from a wide variety of options to develop your skills in music performance and production techniques. You study six units in total and five of these are internally assessed throughout the course with an external assessment that brings together all the skills you’ve learnt in the spring term of Year 13.

This course would suit those students with a passion for music and an interest in all aspects of the subject. With guidance from your teacher, you will be expected to be in charge of your own learning, set goals, evaluate your progress and assess your own rehearsals and performances, making improvements when necessary.

There are many varied roles for individuals within the music industry, including performing, composing and music management. Rewards for those who reach the top of their profession can be great, but this is a very competitive environment. Therefore, this course would suit students who have a passion for performing, an interest in developing their skills on their instrument and possibly a career in the performance field in preparation for auditions for higher education.

There are several units involved in this qualification; and it would be of particular interest to musicians interested in the rock and popular genre.

Units studied will include:

• Session Musician
• Developing Instrumental Skills
• Music Marketing
• Auditioning for Music
• Planning a Career in Music – Core Unit
• Rehearsal Skills and Live Performance – Externally Assessed

Entry Requirements

At least 5 9 to 4 grades at GCSE, including GCSE English Language. A Level 2 vocational qualification will be regarded as the equivalent of one of the 5 required 9 to 4 GCSE grades.

Music at GCSE grade 4 or above, or a Level 2 BTEC Diploma (or equivalent such as RSL) in a related area at Merit level, or have considerable practical experience in Music (usually in the form of graded instrumental exams). Grade 4 in GCSE English is also required. If you don’t currently study GCSE/L2 Music, we will ask you to do an audition or send in a video of you performing a piece of music.

Can I take additional qualifications?

This qualification can be taken alongside two other A Levels/Extended Certificates. You can discuss the suitable subject combinations at interview.

How will I be assessed?

• Portfolio of coursework tasks – written and video evidence
• Concerts / Performances
• External assessment

Each unit is assessed through performances and portfolio assignments – projects will be delivered in a “real world” environment; many of your performances will be given to a public audience in order to give you experience and exposure to the ‘music industry’. All work is submitted to RSL+ electronically through their online assessment tool.

What are the costs?

Any costs associated with this course will be clarified at interview. Students should budget for trips to performances and concerts in order to gain maximum benefit from the course. The trips will take place periodically throughout the year at a cost of approximately £15 - £30 per trip.

We strongly encourage students to budget for individual instrumental/music lessons (you can have instrumental/singing lessons at One) to support their study of music courses.

What is the duration?

Two years.

What is the UCAS points tariff for this course?

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma

Mejedi Owusu, A Level Music, BTEC Ext Cert Sound Engineering, BTEC Ext Cert Music Performance 

Not one to blow his own trumpet, Mejedi talks humbly about his passion for music and his dedication to becoming a live performer.

Caitlin Millman, A Level Maths, BTEC Ext Cert Sound Engineering, BTEC Ext Cert Music Performance 

Rock out with Caitlin and discover why her mix of technical and creative courses will help her pursue a career as a guitarist or a sound engineer.

How do I apply?

Click here to apply