WHY SHOULD I STUDY A LEVEL OF MUSIC TECHNOLOGY? Music Technology is a course that enables students to learn the art of recording, from setting up microphones to mixing and mastering music - using advanced software. Composing using technology, developing production skills and improving aural skills are also key elements of the course. This course significantly benefits students studying music, diversifying their skills, increasing employability in the music industry and providing additional pathways for the future, as music technology is a growing industry. The Sixth Form College Colchester is one of the few centers in the region that has the resources and teaching staff to run the well-respected A Level Music Technology course. The College houses three recording studios and two specialized music technology classrooms, all with music keyboards and the latest version of the professional software: Ableton Live Suite. In addition to this, the College has five practice rooms and a performance venue. In terms of equipment, the College has a varied set of microphones, including both condenser and dynamic transducer types, mixing desks, audio interfaces, synthesizers, samplers, and many other pieces of equipment needed for professional recording. Furthermore, the national revision guide for the subject is written by the Course Leader for Music Technology at the College. COURSE CONTENT The first year of the course consists of four components: Recording (20%) – students will plan, set up, record, mix, and master a 3-minute song. Technology-based Composition (20%) – students will compose music on Ableton, exploring synthesis, sampling, and manipulation techniques. Listening and Analysing Exam (25%) – students will listen to popular music and answer questions on production techniques. Producing and Analysing Exam (35%) – students will be given audio files, in which they will follow instructions to mix and master a song. In addition to the A Level course, students can progress onto an Extended Project Qualification in which they could focus on Music Technology. Students are given the freedom to research and create a product (album, performance, instrument design etc.) in an area that they want to specialize in. Students are also able to complete a Gold Arts Award qualification.
At least 5 GCSE subjects at grade 4 - 9. Pathway 1 Grade 5 in Music Theory, or clear ability to read music notation fluently (this will be tested during Induction) Pathway 2 Some experience in Music, either as a Music GCSE (minimum of grade 4 or above), or a Merit in a BTEC/Level 2 Music course, and suitable skills/experience of music technology, software and equipment or as a hobby/ interest.
You will sit two exams at the end of the second year which will cover all the content from both years of the course and will count towards 60% of the grade. You will also complete two coursework projects (Recording and Composing), forming the other 40% of the grade at A Level.
About Education Provider
| Region | East of England |
| Local Authority | Essex |
| Ofsted Rating | Good |
| Gender Type | Co-Educational |
| Address | North Hill, Colchester, CO1 1SN |
WHY SHOULD I STUDY A LEVEL OF MUSIC TECHNOLOGY? Music Technology is a course that enables students to learn the art of recording, from setting up microphones to mixing and mastering music - using advanced software. Composing using technology, developing production skills and improving aural skills are also key elements of the course. This course significantly benefits students studying music, diversifying their skills, increasing employability in the music industry and providing additional pathways for the future, as music technology is a growing industry. The Sixth Form College Colchester is one of the few centers in the region that has the resources and teaching staff to run the well-respected A Level Music Technology course. The College houses three recording studios and two specialized music technology classrooms, all with music keyboards and the latest version of the professional software: Ableton Live Suite. In addition to this, the College has five practice rooms and a performance venue. In terms of equipment, the College has a varied set of microphones, including both condenser and dynamic transducer types, mixing desks, audio interfaces, synthesizers, samplers, and many other pieces of equipment needed for professional recording. Furthermore, the national revision guide for the subject is written by the Course Leader for Music Technology at the College. COURSE CONTENT The first year of the course consists of four components: Recording (20%) – students will plan, set up, record, mix, and master a 3-minute song. Technology-based Composition (20%) – students will compose music on Ableton, exploring synthesis, sampling, and manipulation techniques. Listening and Analysing Exam (25%) – students will listen to popular music and answer questions on production techniques. Producing and Analysing Exam (35%) – students will be given audio files, in which they will follow instructions to mix and master a song. In addition to the A Level course, students can progress onto an Extended Project Qualification in which they could focus on Music Technology. Students are given the freedom to research and create a product (album, performance, instrument design etc.) in an area that they want to specialize in. Students are also able to complete a Gold Arts Award qualification.
At least 5 GCSE subjects at grade 4 - 9. Pathway 1 Grade 5 in Music Theory, or clear ability to read music notation fluently (this will be tested during Induction) Pathway 2 Some experience in Music, either as a Music GCSE (minimum of grade 4 or above), or a Merit in a BTEC/Level 2 Music course, and suitable skills/experience of music technology, software and equipment or as a hobby/ interest.
You will sit two exams at the end of the second year which will cover all the content from both years of the course and will count towards 60% of the grade. You will also complete two coursework projects (Recording and Composing), forming the other 40% of the grade at A Level.