Music BTEC Level 2 (First Award in Music)

No of Units: 4Awarding Board: EdexcelCourse Code: 600/6818/8

Unit Outline:

Unit 1 The music industry
Unit 2 Managing a music product
Unit 4 Introducing music composition
Unit 5 Introducing music performance

Assessment:

Completion of the BTEC first award is broadly equivalent to one 9-4 GCSE grade

Unit 1 The music industry is worth 25% and is an external written exam
Unit 2 Managing a music product is worth 25% and is coursework
Unit 4 Introducing music composition is worth 25% and is coursework
Unit 5 Introducing music performance is worth 25% and is coursework

Further Information:

BTEC Music is based on the practical skills of performance and a knowledge and understanding of the musical profession. The course allows a great deal of freedom, particularly in the music you choose to perform and compose.

Unit 1 enables learners to gain awareness and an underpinning knowledge of the basic structure of the music industry, taking into consideration some of the roles undertaken by those working in it. Students will also consider the roles of people working in these organisations, specifically exploring those involved in the administration, promotion, performing and production of music events and products.

Unit 2 enables learners to manage the planning, delivery and promotion of a live concert, CD, or other music product. The success of their music product will rely heavily on the planning and development process.

Unit 4 enables learners to develop a portfolio of ideas, some of which will be developed and one of which will be completed. They will discover a range of compositional techniques and produce contrasting musical ideas to develop their compositional expertise. An idea might take the form of a short melodic motif, a chord progression or a rhythmic idea. Ideas can be short or long – they will consider the different ways in which these ideas could form the basis for a complete piece of music.

Unit 5 enables learners to play/sing both confidently and accurately to an audience with a level of expression and interpretation in their work. Throughout the course students will explore repertoire for their chosen instrument and will make decisions as to which pieces they intend to prepare for performance. Students will be taught by qualified and successful peripatetic music teachers. They will have access to a free twenty-minute lesson once a week on an instrument of their choice. Students will have the opportunity to perform as a soloist and as part of a small ensemble.

Trips:

Concerts, Radio station, Beatles Museum Liverpool, recording studios

Possible Career Destinations:

BTEC music is a very useful subject for anyone interested in any kind of career in Music, either performing, composing or recording. It also provides a pathway onto the BTEC level 3 certificate and further undergraduate musical courses.

For further information, contact: Miss J. Donald or Mr M. Leadbeatter