Level 3 Music Performance and Production Course in Henley-on-Thames. Classes run at The Henley College, full-time during the day over two years. This music performance and production qualification blends practical skills with academic study. You'll develop your instrumental or vocal performance alongside music production techniques. The course prepares you for direct entry into employment or progression to higher education, apprenticeships, or higher apprenticeships. Entry requires GCSE grade 4 or above in English and Maths, plus three further grade 4s, and you'll need to demonstrate instrumental, vocal, or musical knowledge at application. Awarded by University of the Arts London.
Who this course is for
These are vocational qualifications which blend practical, career-focused skills and academic study to prepare you for direct entry into employment or enable you to move on to higher education, apprenticeships or higher apprenticeships
Entry requirements
English 4, Maths 4, plus 3 Grade 4s. Must demonstrate instrumental playing or singing skills and musical knowledge
What you will learn
You'll develop your instrumental or vocal performance skills to a professional standard.
You'll learn music production techniques, including recording, mixing, and audio software.
You'll study music theory and develop your understanding of musical knowledge.
You'll create and present original work as part of your performance practice.
You'll explore the music industry and how it operates commercially and creatively.
You'll build skills in composition and arrangement across different genres.
How you will learn
You'll learn through a mix of practical workshops, studio sessions, and classroom-based academic study. Assessment is coursework-based, with performance assessments, production projects, and written assignments throughout the two years. There are no written exams in the traditional sense. Your work is assessed against University of the Arts London standards. Educational visits may form part of your learning, with a contribution required toward those costs.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Henley College will confirm anything else you need before you start. There is a £50 materials contribution for the course, plus any costs for educational visits that may take place during your studies.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Music producer: create and produce tracks in a studio environment.
Session musician: perform as an instrumentalist or vocalist for recordings or live work.
Live sound technician: manage audio for live events and performances.
Music teacher or tutor: teach instrument or music theory privately or in schools.
Recording engineer: operate recording equipment in professional studios.
Music promoter or events coordinator: organise and promote live music events.
Composer or songwriter: write original music for media, artists, or performance.
What you could study next
A degree in Music, Music Production, or Music Technology at university. This is a direct route for many graduates of this Extended Diploma.
A degree in Music Business or Arts Management if you want to move into the industry side.
A Higher or Degree Apprenticeship in a creative or technical music role, combining work with further study.
A Level 4 or Level 5 qualification in Audio Engineering or Sound Production for a more technical specialism.
