AS/A EDEXCEL

Music technology is the perfect subject choice for anyone who wishes to be involved in the huge music production industry.  Yet it is a valuable qualification for entrance into other careers too.  It is a creative/IT combination subject. Multi-media is a huge employment area and can only become more important as the role of the internet grows in all areas of life.  Already, creative individuals who are computer literate are in demand in the work marketplace.  The skills learned in this subject are also extremely useful and enriching generally, both in the work place and for pleasure.

Course Outline
AS - 2 Units
Unit 1 - Music Technology Portfolio 1. Students learn the theory and practice of recording in the modern close mic multi-track style. Students learn midi programming skills through transcription and performance.
Students learn arranging skills through a creative arrangement. 70%

Unit 2 - Listening.  Students are encourages to listen analytically, developing their understanding of musical language elements and how are they are used in music production.  It is assessed by a two hour examination in June 30%.

A2
Unit 1 - Music Technology Portfolio 2.  Students learn how recording and midi skills are combined in modern production and realize their own version of a classic track.  Students build on the recording skills and knowledge learnt in AS by completing an advanced close-mic recording.  Students take the next step beyond arranging by completing a composition based on a brief set by Edexcel. 

Unit 2 - Analyzing and producing.  Students will be expected to demonstrate their knowledge of music and the principles of music technology though a series of written commentaries, manipulations and production tasks.

Preferred Entry Requirements
Students MUST have a grade C or above at GCSE Music, grade 4 or above AB music examination pass or impressive examples of previous production/composition work.  Basic computer literacy as well as the ability to play the keyboard to at least a basic level is essential.*

*Please note that your enrolment on to a particular course must be approved by the Head of that department.