Music Technology A2

Music Technology AS/A Level
Art, Media, Technology, Perf Art, Music & Dance
Board and Syllabus details
Board: Edexcel - Syllabus: AS Level (8511), A Level (9501)
About the subject

The Music Technology course is ideally suited to musicians with an interest in music production techniques and technologies. A very secure 'feel' for music computer software and music technology equipment is essential for this course. Students with Classical, or popular music/jazz background will find this course both challenging and rewarding.
Students learn to record sound, capturing performances using microphones, mixing desks and transferring the work to state of the art music production software for final editing. The course provides real experience in manipulating sound using sequencing software.
Some ability to read a conventional musical score, work with others as a team, as well as strong personal creative motivation in popular music are qualities that will lead to success in this course.

Learning Styles
Practical Workshops.
Lectures.
Research based projects (internet/intranet/videos recordings/text-books).
Seminars and presentations.
After College Project work-shops: In the Recording Studios

Subject combinations and progression
Music Technology can be combined effectively with arts or science based programmes of study. Physics, Electronics, Media Studies etc. compliment the Music Technology course in a significant way, leading to various industry-based vocations at the further education stage.

Subject modules and assessment
AS (8MT1) - Unit 1: Music Technology Portfolio 1
(i) Sequencing: Produce a sequenced MIDI performance using software of a piece set by the exam board.
(ii) Multi-track recording: Create an audio CD track of a pop/jazzsong
(iii)Creative Sequenced performance: Record a 'cover version' of a track in a style set by the exam board: e.g. Light my Fire (Doors) in the style of Dido
Unit 2: Listening Exam: A 2 hour listening exam on CD. Questions on Music from 1910 to Present day, with 2 special focus areas: Rock & Roll Rap and Hip Hop
A2 (9MT01) - Unit 3: Music Technology Portfolio 2
(i) Sequenced integrated performance
(ii) Multi-track recording
(iii) Composing Using Music Technology
Unit 4: Analysing and Producing
A two hour examination using an audio CD, listening and commenting on production techniques, as well as creating a CD mix track in the exam.

Entry Requirements
C in English Language and ability to read musical score.