Free RSL Level 3 Creative Music Industry Course in Preston

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyRSL

About this course

Free RSL Level 3 Creative Music Industry Course in Preston. Classes run at Cardinal Newman College, full-time over two years. This is the RSL Level 3 Extended Certificate in the Creative Music Industry, equivalent to one A-Level. You'll focus on solo and ensemble performance, composition, songwriting, stagecraft, and professional practice in the music industry. You'll also explore live streaming, concert reviewing, and how to market yourself as a musician. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 4 in English Language or Maths and a grade 3 to 5 ABRSM or equivalent in Music.

Who this course is for

The RSL Creative Music Industry course has a lot of Solo and Ensemble Performance. You will be working in bands regularly to compose and perform tracks from scratch in a range of different styles from Psychedelic Rock to Disco. You will also explore stagecraft, what makes a successful performance and how to rehearse effectively in delivering professional-sounding Covers as a band in a range of styles from Britpop to Synthpop! As well as performance and composition, you will explore the development of your instrument over time, giving a presentation on the significance of your instrument both historically and culturally. You will analyse and write about a range of Rock & Pop genres from Rock �n� Roll to Bubblegum Punk. You will also get to review concerts, interview current working professionals in the industry, learn about the world of Live Streaming and also prepare for employment within the Music Industry. There are no formal exams on this course, but you are assessed on everything that you do from written research to rehearsal and performances.

Entry requirements

Five Grade 4s at GCSE with at least a minimum of Grade 3-5 ABRSM or equivalent in Music and a 4 in English Language or Maths

What you will learn

  • You'll perform solo and as part of a band across a range of musical styles, from Rock 'n' Roll to Synthpop.
  • You'll compose and perform original tracks from scratch in band settings.
  • You'll develop stagecraft skills and learn what makes a live performance successful.
  • You'll build a portfolio of original songwriting.
  • You'll learn how to rehearse effectively and deliver professional-sounding covers.
  • You'll explore live streaming and how it works in the music industry.
  • You'll learn how to market yourself as a musician using social media.
  • You'll review concerts and interview working professionals in the music industry.

How you will learn

There are no formal written exams on this course. You're assessed on everything you do, including written research tasks, rehearsals, and live performances. Year 12 units cover performing music live, composing in different styles, music in context, and instrument development. Year 13 units include live streaming and performing as a featured artist. Classes are delivered in person at Cardinal Newman College during the day.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cardinal Newman College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Session musician: performing on recordings or at live events for other artists.
  • Live sound technician: managing audio at concerts and events.
  • Music producer: creating and recording tracks in a studio setting.
  • Music teacher or tutor: teaching instrument or theory to individuals or groups.
  • Band or artist manager: handling bookings, promotion, and day-to-day management.
  • Social media and marketing coordinator for a music label or venue.
  • Live events coordinator: organising concerts, tours, or music festivals.

What you could study next

  • Degree in Music Performance or Music Production: a natural next step if you want to develop your skills further at university level. The Extended Certificate is equivalent to one A-Level, so you may combine it with other qualifications to meet entry requirements.
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) in Music: a college-based alternative to a full degree, focusing on practical and industry skills.
  • Apprenticeship in Music Business or Live Events: earn while you learn in a professional setting.