Music Technology & Performance – Level 3

Course Type
School Leavers
Subject Area
Music, Music & Musical Theatre
Location
Bridgwater College
Start date
01/09/2026

Course Overview

This course is ideal if you want to find employment in the music industry, or work as a self-employed musician or practitioner, in the creative industries. It will help develop your practical and theoretical understanding of a wide range of music styles and improve your performance, composition and production skills.

You can follow one of two pathways:?

  • Performance Pathway: this pathway allows you to develop your skills through specialist lessons for music composition, instrumental, and ensemble performance in a range of contexts.
  • Technology Pathway: this pathway enables you to develop your production skills in sequencing, sound synthesis, DJ, and the use of music technology in performance.

You will develop a strong theoretical understanding of music fundamentals, the music industry, and a broad range of music production skills, including studio recording, remixing, event management, and live sound across both pathways.

The course also provides hands-on training in industry-standard software such as Logic Pro, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools. You’ll have regular opportunities to perform at college-run music events across a range of venues and even release your own tracks through our student-run record labels.?

Work placements and employability training are embedded throughout the course, ensuring you are fully prepared to continue your studies or enter the industry.?

Topics may include:

  • Music fundamentals
  • Rehearsal and performance
  • Computer-based music composition
  • Music video production
  • Remixing and production
  • The music industry
  • Music events management
  • Studio recording techniques
  • Digital synthesis
  • Live sound.

Assessment Methods

This course is assessed through coursework with creative practical assignment tasks and an externally assessed controlled assessment. These reflect industry practice and develop fundamental skills that are required for employment in the music industry, including performance projects and coursework assignments.

Progression Options

On successful completion, you could progress to study music at university or pursue employment in the entertainment industry. Many of our alumni have successfully built careers as performers, producers, and music industry professionals, showcasing the real-world opportunities this course can lead to.

Entry Requirements

You need five GCSEs in the 9 to 4 range, or a relevant Level 2 qualification passed at Merit level. For the performance pathway, you need to demonstrate skills equivalent to approximately Grade 5 standard on your first instrument, usually having played for at least three years.

Entry is subject to a successful interview and audition.

Frequently Asked Questions

We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.