Free BTEC Level 3 Music Course in Oldham. Classes run full-time at Oldham Sixth Form College, over two years. You'll develop your ability to create, arrange and perform music across a range of popular styles, working closely with other musicians. The course also covers the music industry, with a focus on live event planning. You'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, and you should be playing an instrument or singing regularly to a good level.
Who this course is for
You will develop your ability to create, arrange and perform music with other musicians in a range of popular styles. It also includes a unit on the music industry with a focus on live event planning. There is a strong focus on working in collaboration with other musicians and performers.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 passes (grade 4 or above) at GCSE, including at least a 4 in both English and Maths.
Students should be playing an instrument, or singing, on a regular basis to a good level and be willing to perform in front of others. If voice is your main instrument then you will need some ability on guitar, piano and/or music theory. We do not demand GCSE Music, BTEC Level 2 Music, or instrument graded exams for entry, although they are useful.
What you will learn
You'll develop your ability to perform in a range of modern genres, including pop, rock, soul, dance, rap and jazz.
You'll learn to create and arrange music with other musicians.
You'll rehearse and perform as part of an ensemble, reinterpreting songs in different styles.
You'll study the music industry, including how live events are planned and managed.
You'll build skills in musical analysis and written presentation.
You'll practise collaboration and performance in front of an audience.
How you will learn
Assessment is 100% coursework across both years. Forty per cent is internally assessed and sixty per cent is externally assessed by Pearson Edexcel. You'll be assessed through rehearsals, live performances, presentations and written analysis. There are no written exams. Learning takes place in the classroom and through practical ensemble sessions with other students.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Oldham Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start. You should be able to play your chosen instrument or sing to a good level when you join. If your main instrument is voice, some ability on guitar, piano or music theory is expected.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Session musician: performing across a range of styles for recordings or live work
Live events assistant: supporting the planning and running of music events
Music teacher or tutor: teaching instrument or vocal skills privately or in schools
Studio assistant: supporting recording sessions and production work
Music promoter: organising and marketing live performances
Performer or band member: working as a professional musician in any genre
What you could study next
BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Music: a Level 4 qualification offered at many colleges, taking your performance and industry knowledge further.
BA (Hons) in Music or Music Performance: a university degree for those wanting to specialise in performance, composition or the music industry.
Music Production or Sound Engineering courses: if you want to move into the technical side of recording and live sound.
