Music Technology BTEC

Course summary

Exam board – Pearson/Edexcel - BTEC Nationals - Extended Certificate (Music) Minimum requirements for the course: Grade 5 in Music; or Merit in Music Technology; if neither course has been studied, Mrs O'Neil will offer term time only interviews. Staff contact: Mrs O’Neil: loneil@cheneyschool.org; Mr Miller: rmiller@cheneyschool.org What is Music BTEC all about? The BTEC Music course is a very practical course, focussing on performance and composition. There are 3 compulsory units which include ensemble performance and a study of the music industry along with one optional unit, where students are able to specialise in their chosen area of study, e.g. performance or composition. What is Music Technology BTEC all about? You will be introduced to some of the skills and techniques required by the studio musician, whether as a composer using Logic or a producer. There are five units with Music for Media and DAW production (extended exam) being mandatory. The remaining units are chosen depending on the interest and/or specialism of students and focus on skills such as mixing, sampling and synthesis or creating commercial music. BTEC Music or Music Technology are equivalent to one full A level. Complementary courses: Computing and the Creative Arts. Leads to: Music Technology/Music degree/Popular Music courses and there are many transferable skills that can be used in a range of higher education disciplines. It can also lead to a career in the music industry. Resources: Music Theory: From Beginner to Expert – The Ultimate Step-By-Step Guide to Understanding and Learning Music Theory Effortlessly: Volume 1, Carter; Working in the music industry (3rd ed), Britten. Bursary students can request copies from the Bursary Fund. What students say: ‘If you aren't a fan of traditional classical music then this is the course for you. It is much more enjoyable for those of us into the 'techy' side of things. It allows you to be very creative with your musical ideas.’