Level 3 Music Performance and Production Course in Northampton. Classes run at Northampton College, full-time during the day. It's free for learners aged 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though an Advanced Learner Loan or instalment plan may be available. This two-year music performance and production qualification covers live performance, audio production, and music theory. You'll perform at real gigs, record a demo, and work with industry-standard equipment including Apple Mac and PC software, a keyboard lab, and professional practice booths. Entry requires four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, plus an audition to assess your musicianship.
Who this course is for
Level 3 Music Performance & Production is a very practically based course including a portfolio of performances and theory based assignments. Practical elements include use of audio production facilities, practice booths, Apple Mac & PC software, keyboard lab and gigs in performance venue (both in house and externally) . This course gives the opportunity to perform live gigs and record a demo. The College has strong links with the local Music Community, the Royal & Derngate and the Roadmender. The method of learning is by a mixture of academic and practical sessions. The Level 3 Diploma and Extended Diploma in Music Performance & Production have been designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge and understanding necessary to progress to further study and training in a range of music performance and production disciplines. The qualification has been designed for students who have an interest in music performance and/or music production who wish to explore and extend this interest via a full-time, immersive learning experience Prospective students should be aware that employment in the music industry as a performer is extremely demanding and requires a high level of skill and commitment. What will I study? The units you will study are likely to include: Core Units: Principles of music performance and production Critical Listening and music composition Music Industry and professional practice Critical and contextual awareness for music performance and production Music Production in context Music performance in context Preparation for specialist study in music performance and production Collaborative performance project Specialist Units: Developing Music performance and production skills Exploration of specialist study in music performance and production Preparing for progression in music performance Project proposal for extended project in music performance and production Extended project in music performance and production
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at Grade 4-5/C or above or an appropriate Level 2 qualification plus GCSE English at Grade 3/D or Functional Skills Level 1 in English and Maths. Competent musicianship to be determined at audition.
What you will learn
You'll develop live performance skills through gigs at on-site and external venues.
You'll record a demo using professional audio production facilities.
You'll use industry-standard software on Apple Mac and PC for music production.
You'll build a portfolio of performances and theory-based assignments.
You'll practise and rehearse in dedicated practice booths.
You'll work with a keyboard lab to develop your musical technique.
You'll engage with the local music community through college partnerships with venues including the Royal and Derngate and the Roadmender.
How you will learn
Learning is practical and classroom-based, with a strong focus on hands-on work. You'll be assessed through a portfolio of live performances and theory-based assignments. Practical sessions take place in audio production facilities, a keyboard lab, and practice booths. You'll also perform at live gigs, both on campus and at external venues, and record a demo as part of your assessment.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Northampton College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Music producer: create and record tracks in studio settings.
Live sound engineer: manage audio at concerts and events.
Session musician: perform as a hired player for recordings or live shows.
Music teacher or tutor: teach instrument or music theory privately or in schools.
Recording studio assistant: support engineers and producers in a studio.
Events and venue technician: handle sound and production at music venues.
Band or artist manager: coordinate bookings, promotion, and logistics.
What you could study next
A degree in Music, Music Production, or Music Technology at university - the UAL Extended Diploma is recognised for higher education entry.
A Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Music Production or Music Performance, for a more vocational higher-level route.
A PGCE or teaching qualification if you want to move into music education.
