Choosing your programme for the Middle Years 2024

Music Technology and Popular Music Pathway

WHAT YOU WILL STUDY IN THIS COURSE

Unit 1 – An Introduction to Popular Music – students explore a range of pop/rock genres, including music from the 1970s to the present day Unit 2 – An Introduction to Song Writing – students develop their knowledge of composition and performance techniques, and explore the methods of song writing used in the 21st century Unit 3 – Covers, Arrangements and Remixes – students use DAWs (Logic, Ableton, BandLab etc.) to edit and sample audio, using plugins and samples to experiment with styles and effects Unit 4 – Music for Film, Television and Games – students create a composition to a brief, using a detailed storyboard to help deepen their understanding of the film music process Unit 5 – Studio Recording – students develop their knowledge of studio recording, experimenting with microphone placement and studio effects, and editing their own podcast/ concert recording

WHAT SKILLS WILL YOU DEVELOP

You will develop a wide range of skills, including song writing, editing, remixing and recording. Music technology forms a major part of the course, and you will work regularly with DAWs to deepen your understanding of composition and studio effects. You will also explore notation, harmony and general music analysis through both written and practical work.

HOW WILL PROGRESS BE ASSESSED

Assessment is continuous and incorporates a range of practical assignments, including concerts, podcasts and studio recordings. You will keep logbooks with spoken, written and video reflections and examples of work you have produced throughout the course.

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE

This course should appeal to anyone with an interest in music technology and/or popular music of today. You do not need to have significant experience in any particular element of the course, but you should be keen to learn more about the performing, composing and music technology/studio processes behind film and popular music.

WHERE COULD THIS COURSE LEAD

This course will equip you with a deeper understanding of the creative skills behind performing and composing, and will enhance your knowledge of music technology and studio recording. The course acts as good preparation for IB Music (SL or HL) or A Level Music Technology. It could also prepare you for RockSchool grades in Music Production, and can lead to university courses in Music or Music Technology. Please note that Music is also available for GCSE – and it is possible to take both. Please speak to the Head of Academic Music for advice on which course or courses would be most appropriate for you.

10