BTEC National Award in Music Practice (Performing)

Course information:
BTEC National Award in Music Practice (Performing)

Course summary:
*BTEC National Award is equivalent to 1 full *-A* level
*It is usually combined with AS/A2 subjects and instrumental
tuition

Course content:
Three core units
*Music Performance Techniques
*Music Project
*Planning a Music Project
Three specialist units
*Aural Perception Skills
*Improvising Music
*Working and Developing as a Musical Ensemble
Unit 22: Music Performance Techniques
This unit is focused on two areas: physically being able to play or sing with fluency, dexterity and the authority of a seasoned performer, and the development of logical and structured practice routines. This unit focuses on the production of the tone, timing and authority of a professional player.
Unit 23: Music Project
This unit is the culmination of the skills and knowledge gained through all the practical work carried out in specialist units. Learners will create and promote a substantial live music event, facing the same issues and demands as any commercial product/band.
Unit 29: Planning a Music Project
Throughout this unit, learners will explore the challenges of planning, and evaluating a substantial live performance project. It is up to learners whether they choose to experience this through a role as performer or project manager.
Unit 4: Aural Perception Skills
Musicians, producers and engineers working professionally need to be able to hear the musical elements, so that they can comment constructively, rather than judgementally, on the creative process. Learners will discover the exciting and creative potential of researching and analysing musical forms.
Unit 12: Improvising Music
On completion of this unit, learners will have developed an understanding of improvisation and gained the confidence to perform improvised musical passages. This will, in turn, lead to increased confidence in composing and performing music and an improvement in all round musicianship.
Unit 40: Working and Developing as a Musical Ensemble
Few musicians spend their working lives as soloists. Most regularly work as part of a group or ensemble of some kind. This practical unit explores the nature ensemble work by allowing learners to become part of a musical ensemble concentrating on the process of a team working together to produce a musically and artistically satisfying result.

Course structure:
*BTEC National Award is equivalent to 1 full A level
*It is usually combined with AS/A2 subjects and instrumental
tuition

Assessment procedure:
You are assessed by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic music industry situations, activities and demands. All units are individually assessed and graded and an overall grade for the qualification is awarded.

Entry requirements:
*a BTEC First Certificate or Diploma in a related subject or
*This course is suitable for students with at least four GCSEs at
grades A - C
*Students must be able to play an instrument or sing (usually an
audition is needed unless the student has a *-grade* exam or
GCSE music)

Qualifications achieved:
National Award in Music Practice

Progression opportunities:
BTEC National Awards are recognised by employers and higher education (universities and colleges). Students may plan to go into careers such as Music Management, Teaching, Performance or Production.
If you decide to go to university or college you could take a degree such as a B.Mus., B.A.. Or a BTEC Higher National in a related area.

Free study and financial support:
Most full-time students do not have to pay for their course. We may also be able to help you with some of the extra costs associated with college, eg travel, childcare, equipment, books etc. In addition, if you have just left school, you may be eligible for an Educational Maintenance Allowance.