Course Overview
This inspiring course is designed for musicians eager to refine their instrumental technique, elevate their live performances, and strengthen their understanding of music. Led by highly qualified and experienced industry professionals for over 30 years, it empowers you with hands-on experience in music performance, production, composition, and the business aspects of the industry. Whether you’re starting out or aiming to take your career to the next level, this course provides the skills and confidence to thrive in the music world.
Turn your passion for music into a thriving career!
The music industry offers an exciting and diverse range of opportunities, from performing on world stages to working in film, television, recording studios on cruise ships and beyond. Whether your dream is to be a musician, composer, studio engineer, or music educator, this course provides the perfect foundation to launch your journey.
Learn in a dynamic environment with specialist, well-equipped teaching spaces, and take your skills further by engaging in the vibrant musical activities available within the Music Academy. From performing in the state-of-the-art Nidum Arts Centre at Neath College to joining inspiring ensembles like Jazz Band, Funk Band, Orchestra, and Choir, you’ll have endless opportunities to grow as a musician. Recent performances have taken place in Swansea Arena, Brecon Jazz and Birmingham Town Hall! You can even form your very own band!
Recent students have gone on to further their musical careers in the Royal Welsh College of Music, the Royal Northern College of Music and the University of West London. Others have set up businesses using what they have learned in the practical and theory elements on the course.
A typical offer would be: 3 A Levels including Music at grade D or above / 2 A Levels including Music at grade C or above or MMM profile from a BTEC Level 3 qualification and five GCSEs at C or above, including English and Maths or a suitable combination of the above.
Additionally, entry criteria can vary dependant on the applicant’s recent relevant experience within the music industry. Applications are welcomed from mature learners who do not have formal qualifications, and the college will consider applications on an individual basis. Applicants will be invited to an interview and vocal/instrumental audition before acceptance on to the course. Please prepare one piece to perform which should be of Grade 6 standard. Please send in an example of a composition and an essay or a piece of extended writing.
A recognised progression route for this programme is the BA (Hons) Music or other music related degrees. Graduates have employment prospects in a diverse range of media companies as well as the music industry, for example: session musician, performer, studio engineer, music agency executive, sound designer, composer and arranger, musical director, music teacher, music therapist, radio broadcaster, music journalist, researcher, event manager, record label manager.
Whatever your interest in music, you will embark on a rigorous, structured and enjoyable course delivered by industry specialists. Encapsulating the main elements of musical performance, composition, aural skills, music production and self-promotion, you will learn in an environment of specialist and well equipped teaching rooms, Sibelius Ultimate and Logic Pro X software, 6 practice rooms, live room, recording studio and auditorium.
With expert-led modules taught by tutors who are very highly qualified, you will cover topics such as:
Performing
- Live’N’Loud: A chance to rehearse and perform your favourite tracks as a band to a live audience
- Unplugged: Stripping back classic hits in acoustic sets, performed live in an intimate venue
- Solo Slot: Play or sing whatever you want to really show off your talents
Producing
- Your Home Studio: Making the most of your Mac or PC in today’s digital environment
- Music Creator: Become the new biggest thing and release your music on Spotify
Business
- Learn 2 Earn: Turn your talent and ability into making real money doing what you love
- PromoME: Putting yourself out there in the spotlight
Specialist modules include: The Music Industry, Marketing and Promotion for Musicians, Professional Development, Song writing, Live Arranging Skills, The Evolution of the Instrument, Performance & Instrumental Technique.
You will gain the skills and confidence to shape your future in music, while learning in a fun, relaxed and supportive environment. Your dream career starts here—step onto the stage and make it happen!
You will learn – via a combination of taught lectures / practical classes and workshops / self-directed study and blended learning, with a focus on developing instrumental/vocal technical skills and the additional underpinning knowledge, etc. essential to the employable musician.
Assessment takes place via continual assessment / coursework / written assignments / assessment evenings.
