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BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Merton for 16 to 18 Year Olds – Ricards Lodge High School

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? See Music Courses in Merton.

Apply now →

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Merton. Classes run at Ricards Lodge High School, full-time over two years.

The course lets you develop as a performer, composer, or both. You'll study music theory, performance practice, and composition. Neurological research shows that studying music engages every part of the brain, building problem-solving skills alongside creative ones. Units cover live performance, recording, and music in cultural contexts.

Entry requires GCSE Music at grade 4 or above, a Merit or above at BTEC Level 2 Music, or Grade 5 standard on your instrument. You'll also need practical performance or composing experience, and you'll be invited to a solo audition. You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Music.

Who this course is for

Music is all around us. It influences our moods and emotions and stimulates us in many ways. It is a universal language central to cultures around the world. Recent neurological research has proven that studying an instrument is the only activity we do that engages every part of your brain. It develops your intelligence, your ability to solve problems and your emotional insight. This course will give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in music and express yourself as a performer and/or a composer. It will give you an insight into the varied employment opportunities in the music industry and practical experiences and performance opportunities to be proud of for the rest of your life. The course can be adapted to your interests, abilities and aspirations both in what you study and in how you are assessed.

Entry requirements

GCSE Music 4 or higher, Merit or above at BTEC Level 2, or Grade 5 standard in your instrument. You should also have practical experience of live performance or composing. Applicants will be invited to attend a solo audition - specific details for this will be sent on receipt of application.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop your skills as a solo and ensemble performer.
  • You'll create original compositions and develop your own musical voice.
  • You'll study music theory and how it applies to performance and composition.
  • You'll explore music from a range of cultural and historical contexts.
  • You'll learn about music production and recording techniques.
  • You'll build skills in critical listening and musical analysis.
  • You'll gain experience of live performance in front of an audience.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of practical performance, composition projects, and classroom study. Assessment is largely coursework-based, with portfolios of performance and composition work. You'll take part in live performances and produce recordings as part of your assessment. Some units may include written tasks or listening tests.

What you will need to bring

You'll need your instrument and any associated equipment for your audition and ongoing lessons. Ricards Lodge High School will confirm what else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Musician, performs as a soloist or in ensembles at live events.
  • Session musician, records and performs for other artists in studios.
  • Music teacher, supports learners in schools or private settings with further study.
  • Music producer, creates and records tracks, usually with additional training.
  • Composer, writes original music for media, theatre, or performance.
  • Arts administrator, works behind the scenes in music venues or organisations.

What you could study next

  • Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Music Performance or Production (Level 4 or 5), a practical next step into higher music study.
  • Bachelor's degree in Music or Music Technology (Level 6), for those aiming toward professional performance, teaching, or the music industry.
  • PGCE or music teaching qualification, if you want to teach in schools after completing a degree.
  • Conservatoire audition programmes, for those pursuing classical or jazz performance at the highest level.
Apply on ricardslodge.merton.sch.uk →
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