Subject | BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Music Performance |
Entry Requirements | 4 GCSE’s 9-4, including Maths and English and a Grade 5 or above in Music. A portfolio of pieces/performances demonstrating student’s musical abilities would be beneficial. Students should be enthusiastic, self-motivated and committed to Music and be able to sing OR play at least one instrument. |
Exam Board | Pearson Edexcel |
Content relating to the subject qualification | This 2 year course is an introduction to the study of Music Performance at level three and is for students who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment, in the creative industries. Students will develop music projects and gain an understanding of the creative process following the units below. UNIT | TITLE | Mandatory | 1 | Practical Music Theory and Harmony | 2 | Professional Practice in the Music Industry | 3 | Ensemble Music Performance | Optional | 4 | Composing music | 5 | Music performance session styles | 6 | Solo Performance | 7 | Improvising music |
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The course is delivered through practical projects. The qualification is designed to enable students to develop knowledge and skills in the sector and increase levels of independence.
Assessment of the qualification
UNIT | TITLE | HOW ASSESSED |
| |
1 | Practical Music Theory and Harmony | Internal |
2 | Professional Practice in the Music Industry | External |
3 | Ensemble Music Performance | External |
| |
4 | Composing music | Internal |
5 | Music performance session styles | Internal |
6 | Solo Performance | Internal |
7 | Improvising music | Internal |
The work is marked using Pass – (E at A level), Merit (C at A level), Distinction or Distinction * (A/A* A level)
To successfully pass the course learners must complete and achieve at least a pass grade or above for all units.
Graded Music Exams also count towards UCAS Points in addition to the A level qualification.
Career Pathways
You will develop the transferable and higher-order skills that are highly regarded by higher education providers and employers.
- Musical Conducting
- Music Producer
- Professional Performer
- Composing
- Film Music and Music for TV
- Music Technology
- DJ and sequencing
Extra-Curricular
There will be plenty of opportunities to take part in extracurricular groups within school at lunchtimes or at the end of the school day leading to concerts and performances. There will also be trips arranged to enhance learning and understanding of the course including working with local musicians.
