BTEC National Award in Music Technology (Studio Recording)

Course information:
BTEC National Award in Music Technology (Studio Recording)

Course content:

Three core units
* Creating a Music Project
* Planning a Music Recording
* Sound Recording Techniques

Three specialist units
* Computer Music Systems
* Listening Skills for Musicians
* Operating Live Sound

Unit 9: Creating a Music Project
This unit will encourage learners to undertake a range of roles in the studio as part of a team, with the aim of creating a product that satisfies current technical and creative trends whilst utilising the best of modern technology. Each group will plan and create an audio CD with a number of tracks, with the focus being on teamwork and organisation.


Unit 30: Planning a Music Recording
During this unit, learners will work as a team to plan a recording session. Each team member will have a variety of clearly defined roles as the process moves through preproduction, recording of basic tracks, overdubbing and mixing, editing, and mastering.


Unit 34: Sound Recording Techniques
This unit will take learners through the process of studio recording and offers practical experience of the different stages of recording from the first capturing of the sounds to the production of the final stereo master recording.



Unit 7: Computer Music Systems
Throughout the study of this unit, learners will develop a practical knowledge and understanding of the functions that a computer now serves in working with music. Learners will demonstrate how to set up and configure their own workstations and will learn how to create music that combines internal and external sound sources.


Unit 15: Listening Skills for Musicians
In this unit, learners will explore the potential of hearing by learning to listen actively instead of passively. In developing listening skills, learners will be able to investigate not only musical sounds but also the sounds and rhythms of nature and urban environments.


Unit 28: Operating Live Sound
Through this unit, learners will develop the individual skills of microphone technique for a range of instruments. Each sound engineer should have the opportunity to mix for performances of contrasting types of material, including -live events in front of an audience.

Course structure:
* BTEC National Award is equivalent to 1 full -A level
* 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:
* This course is suitable for students with at least 4 -C grades
at GCSE or
* a BTEC First Certificate or Diploma in a related subject
* 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 Technology

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. Please ask us about -Money Matters for more details.