About the Course:
This subject is a BTEC National Award, equivalent to A Level. This two year course gives musicians the chance to develop their musical skills beyond GCSE level. It combines study of performance, composition and theory work. The BTEC in Music is suitable for students who play and perform on an instrument or are capable of delivering a vocal performance to a good standard. There will be a mixture of written and practical work and regular performance events to present coursework both in and out of school time. The language and traditions of music from many cultures is studied, as well as examples from a huge range of styles including Classical, Rock, Electronic, Folk and Jazz.
Assessment:
A grading scale of Pass, Merit and Distinction is applied to all units.
In Edexcel BTEC Nationals all units are internally assessed. All assessment for BTEC Nationals is based on strict criteria and it is very important to keep an up-to-date folder of coursework as evidence. Each unit has specified criteria which are to be used for grading. A summative unit grade can be awarded at Pass, Merit or Distinction Levels.
There is no external exam. Instead, moderators verify coursework from a number of units completed through the duration of course. These units cover the following topics:
- Live Performance
- Composing Music
- Planning a Music Project
- Arranging Music
- Music Theory and Harmony
- Studying Music from around the World
- Computer Music Systems
Is there anything else I need to know?
Due to the course content it is advisable to have taken GCSE Music; however promising musicians who have a good standard of performance but have not studied the subject in Y11 should talk to Music staff about suitability for the course.
Progression Routes:
The qualification can provide the UCAS points required to allow access to higher education courses such as degrees and foundation degrees. Potential occupations include opportunities in teaching, promotions, performance, publishing, music therapy and the media.