Free BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Totnes

CostFREE
Duration18 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start4 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body

About this course

Free BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Totnes. Classes run at King Edward VI Community College, full-time during the day. This level 3 btec music course takes 18 months and focuses on practical music skills for the music sector. You'll study performance, improvisation, composing, aural skills, and research into professional practice. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, a good level of performance ability on an instrument or voice, and commitment to rehearsals and live performances outside college hours. You don't need to read music, though some basic theory knowledge will help.

Who this course is for

The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Music Performance is a two-year vocational course which provides students with a practical understanding of the skills required to work within the music sector. It is a modern and contemporary music course, looking at research of a professional practice, improvisation, composing and aural skills, with the main focus being performance. This is highly recognised musical qualification.

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs at Grade 9-4. A passion for music and a good ability in performance on a chosen instrument (including voice). A willingness to commit to out of College hours rehearsals and attend live performances. You do not need to be able to read music but some basic knowledge of music theory will be help.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop performance skills on your chosen instrument or voice.
  • You'll study improvisation techniques used in professional music settings.
  • You'll compose original music and develop your creative process.
  • You'll build aural skills to recognise and respond to music by ear.
  • You'll research professional music practice and how the industry works.
  • You'll prepare for and take part in live performances.

How you will learn

You'll learn through practical, classroom-based sessions at King Edward VI Community College. Assessment is coursework-based, with projects and assignments covering performance, composition, and research. You'll also take part in rehearsals and live performances outside college hours. The Pearson Edexcel BTEC format means your work is assessed continuously rather than through final exams alone.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. King Edward VI Community College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Music performer: work as a live or session musician.
  • Music teacher or tutor: teach instrument or vocal skills privately or in schools.
  • Studio session musician: record for artists, producers, and labels.
  • Music producer: create and produce tracks in a studio environment.
  • Songwriter or composer: write music for artists, film, TV, or games.
  • Events and live music technician: support live music production and touring.

What you could study next

  • Pearson Edexcel BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Music: a Level 4 qualification that takes your practical skills further and is offered at many colleges and universities.
  • BA (Hons) in Music or Music Performance: a full degree for those wanting to specialise in performance, composition, or the music industry.
  • Music Production or Sound Engineering courses: Level 3 or Level 4 options if you want to move into the technical side of music.