Free BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Bishop Auckland. Classes run at Bishop Auckland College, full-time during the day. You'll study music theory, composition, performing, sound design, sound recording, and sound engineering over one year. The course covers both performance and technical production, with live showcases and an outdoor festival each year. Industry partnerships with regional organisations give you professional experience alongside your studies. You'll need a minimum of four GCSEs at grades 9 to 4, including grade 4 or above in Maths and English, or an equivalent Level 2 qualification in a relevant subject.
Who this course is for
Whether you're a performer or you love the technical side of music production, our Level 3 music course will help you develop the skills, knowledge and techniques to go far in this competitive industry and develop as an artist. Working with experts from within the industry you will gain further insight into music theory, composition, performing, industry insights, sound design, sound recording, sound engineering and professional practice. Students will have the opportunity to perform through a variety of live performances, to enable you to broaden your skills and confidence in reaching your full potential. Students will develop knowledge of self-promotion and networking, learning how to establish themselves successfully in the sector. Progression from this course could be to the college's HND music programme or university.
Entry requirements
Minimum 4 GCSE's at grades 9 - 4 (A* - C) or equivalent, including a C or above in Maths and English, or a Level 2 qualification in a relevant subject area.
What you will learn
You'll develop ensemble rehearsal skills and live performance techniques.
You'll compose, sequence, and produce original material using digital audio workstations (DAWs).
You'll explore a range of musical genres and how their characteristics are applied in practice.
You'll learn sound design, sound recording, and sound engineering.
You'll gain insight into self-promotion, networking, and how to establish yourself in the music industry.
You'll plan for a career in music, exploring industry sectors and job roles.
You'll take part in live performances, including indoor showcases and large outdoor public events.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based and practical, combining taught sessions with hands-on performance and production work. You'll work on mandatory units covering ensemble performance, composition, musical styles, and career planning. Industry partnerships with organisations including FX Productions, Aycliffe Radio, Kynren, and The Auckland Project provide real professional experience. Assessment is through unit-based coursework and live performance.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bishop Auckland College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Session musician: performing as part of ensembles or backing acts
Music producer: creating and recording tracks in a studio setting
Sound engineer: managing audio at live events or in studios
Live events technician: handling staging, sound, and lighting at performances
Music teacher or tutor: teaching instruments or music theory
Radio presenter or audio producer: creating content for broadcast
Artist manager or music promoter: supporting and promoting musicians
What you could study next
Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma in Music: a two-year qualification that goes deeper into performance and production, and carries more UCAS points for university applications.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Degree in Music: university-level study in music performance, production, or technology.
Music conservatoire audition programmes: specialist training for performers aiming at professional performance careers.
