One Year Full-time Diploma- Drumming and Percussion The
fully accredited One Year Full-time Diploma is designed to equip players
with the
professional skills and awareness required by today's music
industry.
The Diploma is a level 3 qualification, which is approved for
entry on to many degree
programmes, including our 3 year BMus (Hons).
Drawing on countless years of
professional experience, the curriculum
offers structured, 'hands-on' education. It is
packed with concepts,
techniques, theory and performances, covering virtually every
modern
style of playing.
There are no age limits or academic prerequisites,
but students are required to take
an assessment prior to enrolling on
the course.
The Diploma has two intakes - in March and October. The
academic year is divided
into three 10-week terms with mid and end of
term breaks. Students who successfully
complete the course will be
awarded the Drumtech Diploma as well as the OTC OCN
award. The top
performers will play at the graduation show, held at a top London
venue.
COURSE OVERVEIW
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Drum Concepts covers all essential conceptual aspects of drumming,
including styles, grooves and musical feel. You will also look at the
mental approach to performing and practicing.
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Drum Techniques focuses on the mechanical, physical and ergonomic
principles of
hand and foot technique. You'll look at
co-ordination, control, speed, endurance and mobility to develop
effective self-expression on the kit.
-
Contemporary Styles will give you the low-down on the latest styles at
the cutting edge of music. You'll look at what's required to play
these styles authentically, and then at how to program them, as well
as the use of MIDI systems and studio techniques.
-
Rhythm Section Skills explores in detail the relationship between the
drummer and the bass guitarist. Drummers work on a stylistically
varied repertoire of tunes, looking particularly at technique, time,
groove and feel.
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Latin Percussion will develop your understanding of the principles of
African, Cuban and Brazilian rhythms, and give you a sound grasp of
hand percussion. You'll also apply what you learn to popular music.
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Studio gives you a direct insight into the professional recording
environment. You'll get hands-on experience and really have your
playing challenged! Includes setting up, mic-ing techniques,
recording, interaction with other musicians and studio awareness.
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General Musicianship introduces drummers to essential musical
concepts, including
key signatures, harmony, notation, melody,
scales, chords and songwriting. This will enhance your ability to
communicate about music and create it effectively.
-
Sight Reading covers everything from basic note values and rests,
right up to
transcribing, chart-reading and performance in relation
to different musical styles.
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Live Performance Workshops are your chance to put it all into practice
on stage in a
live band situation! Working under the guidance of
experienced professional musicians, you will move through a range of
styles throughout the year, including rock, pop, jazz, funk and RnB.
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Masterclasses are your chance listen to and learn from some of the
best in the business. Recent visitors to the school have included Chad
Smith, Gary Husband, Ian Paice, Mark Mondesir, Dave Lombardo, Ian
Thomas and Ralph Salmins, who is also a Patron of Drumtech.
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Business is an important area for any musician. You'll get the
low-down from agents,record companies and fixers about the nature of
the business, and how to stay in it.
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Practice booths are available seven days a week for you to perfect
your skills.
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Student Support is your chance to book a one-to-one session with a
tutor to discuss any aspect of the course.
Open College Network
The One Year
Full-Time Diploma course in Popular Music Performance is fully
accredited by the OCN OTC (Oxford, Thames and Chiltern), which is part
of the Open College Network.
It is necessary to join OCN OTC in order
to earn credits towards an OCN qualification which is a recognised award
and will enable you to proceed onto Higher Education.
