Board: EDEXCEL
Syllabus: AS Level (8MT01), A Level (9MT01)
About the subject
The Music Technology course is ideally suited to musicians with an interest in music production techniques and technologies. Students learn to use the industry-standard software ‘Logic’ in order to produce their coursework projects. Students with classical, or popular music/jazz background will find this course both challenging and rewarding. Students learn recording techniques in order to produce a multitrack recording. Sequencing, Arranging and Composing are also taught using Logic.
The course also includes study of the development of music technologies and of popular music styles.
Some ability to read a conventional musical score, to work with others as a team, as well as strong personal creative motivation in popular music are qualities that will lead to success in this course.
Learning styles
Practical Workshops.
Lectures.
Research based projects
Seminars and presentations.
After-hours supervised recording sessions.
Subject Combinations and Progression
Music Technology can be combined effectively with Arts or Science based programmes of study. Physics, Electronics, Media Studies etc. complement the Music Technology course in a significant way, leading to various industry-based vocations at the further education stage.
Subject Modules and Assessment
AS (8MT1)
Unit 1: Music Technology Portfolio 1
(i) Sequencing: Produce a sequenced MIDI performance using software of a song set by the exam board.
(ii) Multitrack recording: Use between 8 and 12 tracks to record a song.
(iii) Arranging: Sequence a ‘cover version’ of a song in a style set by the exam board.
Unit 2: Listening Exam: A 1 hour 45 min listening exam on CD. Questions on popular music from 1910 to the present day.
A2 (9MT01)
Unit 3: Music Technology Portfolio 2
(i) integrated Recording: Sequence a backing track and add up to 3 live audio tracks.
(ii) Multitrack recording: Use between 16 and 24 tracks to record a song.
(iii) Composing: Compose a 3-minute piece in response to one of 3 briefs set by the board.
Unit 4: Analysing and Producing
A two hour examination using audio samples provided by the board, listening and commenting on production techniques, as well as creating a CD mix in the exam.
Entry requirements
C in English Language and ability to read musical score (treble & bass clefs).
Some keyboard ability is desirable.