0800 028 0289
Advanced Diploma in MusicApply Now »
Location: Joseph Wright Centre
Years: 1
Adult Loan Amount: 2882.00****
Interview: Y
Course Summary
This course aims to provide a broad skills base for progression to the Extended Diploma in Music. The main focus is music performance, underpinned by associated theoretical and technical skills, alongside professional development in relation to the music industry.
If you do not have GCSE Maths at grade A*-C (9-4), you will also develop your skills in maths. This will support your main programme of study, help your future progression and enhance your life skills.
Entry requirements
You will need four GCSEs at grade A*-C (9-4) including English Language. Alternatively you may have a BTEC Level 2 Diploma at Merit or Distinction level along with GCSE English Language at grade A*-C (9-4),
You must also be able to play an instrument or sing to grade 4 standard, and you will need to attend an audition where your practical skills and music theory knowledge will be assessed.
Course Content
Units studied will include:
- Music Performance Techniques
- The Sound and Music Industry
- Arranging Music
- Aural Perception Skills
- Music and Society
- Music Performance Session Styles
- Music Theory and Harmony
- Sequencing Systems and Techniques
- The Functional Music Keyboard
- Maths (if necessary)
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is 100% through coursework with practical and theoretical-based assignments.
Learners studying maths will be assessed through a controlled assessment or final exam.
Are there any additional costs or specialist equipment required?
You will need to have your own pair of headphones and a USB memory stick. You will also need to have your own instrument where applicable.
What can I do after this course?
Upon successful completion of this course, learners can progress to the BTEC Extended Diploma in Music.
Did you find the course information on this page useful?
Harriet McDonnell
Rock band Muddibrooke set on right track by Derby College
From the moment she picked up a guitar at the age of eight, former Derby College music student Harriet McDonnell knew she wanted to be a professional musician.
Now, as the 25-year-old frontwoman of Derby rock band Muddibrooke, she and her band are achieving international success.
Muddibrooke’s first single,Turn to Dust, was played on BBC Introducing, and went on to receive airplay all over the world within days of its release. And, when lockdown sadly meant the band couldn’t headline a gig at The Venue in May, Harriet and her band members worked on a single called Stay Home, inspired by their experiences of coronavirus.
Harriet has also played many festivals and supported many other bands such as The Beautiful South, Doctor and the Medics and Frank Turner as a solo musician.
Harriet, from Mickleover, maintains that studying full-time on the two-year BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma Music Performance at Derby College has definitely benefited her career.
She said: “As manager of my own band, my course has helped me know more about the music industry and how it all works; as well as the performance aspect and getting an audience engaged with a show.
“The part I enjoyed most at College was forming bands and performing a show at the end of each term.
“I also loved composing our own music. It taught me a lot about how to use music software to record, compose and create a finished track. I use a lot of that knowledge now with my current work.”
I would recommend Derby College and the music course to anyone thinking about pursuing a career in the music industry.
