New Zealand Diploma in Music (Level 6)

Program Overview

The New Zealand Diploma in Music (Level 6) equips aspiring musicians with advanced skills and knowledge for professional performance or work in the music industry. Through a combination of theoretical, practical, and industry-focused courses, graduates develop expertise in music theory, composition, performance, and music production. The program emphasizes critical thinking, technical proficiency, and industry connections, preparing graduates for diverse careers in music and related fields.

Program Outline

Objectives:

• Graduates can critically evaluate and apply music theory to read and write complex music.
• Graduates can compose, arrange, and write lyrics to create a portfolio of original works.
• Graduates demonstrate professional-level performance ability to engage audiences.
• Graduates possess advanced technical skill and artistic proficiency on their musical instrument.
• Graduates can produce music recordings and sound-related works at a professional level.
• Graduates demonstrate the ability to research and analyze material to apply to music creation.
• Graduates critically reflect on their performance and composition work for continuous improvement.
• Graduates effectively manage their professional practice, development, and industry knowledge to cultivate employment opportunities.

Outline:

The program consists of two years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent), totaling 240 credits.

Level 5:

• BCM501 Music Theory and Aural 1: Develops fundamental music theory and aural skills focusing on rhythms, scales, intervals, modes, chords, and basic keyboard skills for chord construction.
• BCM502 Music Technology 1: Equips students with essential skills to operate music technology equipment and systems, including sound reinforcement recordings, music computer applications, and integrating theoretical knowledge with practical skills.
• BCM503 Contemporary Composition Studies 1: Provides an overview of musical composition and arranging methods by exploring various creative processes and concepts.
Students present their arrangements and compositions using industry-standard software, and document and examine the creative process.
• BCM504 Practical Studies 1: Develops performance and notation skills in a contemporary music context with regular live performance opportunities.
• BCM505 Practical Studies 2: Allows students to further develop skills in specific genres as contemporary musicians in their chosen instrumental major (including voice).
Builds on knowledge and techniques from BCM504, including performance, technical extension, theory application, and musicianship skills. Students learn to write musical scores and develop musical professionalism through group work and performances.
• CON501 Contextual Studies 1: Develops academic writing and presentation skills in the context of music and audio creative arts.
Examines historical and technological influences and developments in popular music within social and cultural contexts. Leads into CON601 Contextual Studies 2.
• MAI501 Music and Audio Industry Studies: Introduces students to the music, audio, and related industries both internationally and in New Zealand.
Examines various roles within these industries, relevant societies and organizations, and basic principles of small business management, self-employment, and marketing/promotion skills for music and audio industry practitioners.

Level 6:

• All students complete:
• BCM601 Music Theory and Analysis:
Further develops understanding and application of music theory, analyzing and applying concepts to read and write complex music, supported by musicological elements.
• BCM603 Contemporary Composition Studies 2: Advances composition and arranging skills through various creative processes, including composing for visual media.
Students present their work using industry-standard software.
• BCM604 Practical Studies 3: Furthers development in a chosen genre as a contemporary musician, building on knowledge and techniques from previous courses.
Students explore writing musical scores and professional development through group work and performances.
• BCM605 Practical Studies 4: Develops advanced skills specific to the chosen genre and instrument/voice, building on previous courses and further exploring score writing and musical professionalism through group work and performances.
• CON601 Contextual Studies 2: Prepares students for professional practice by using research as a unifying strategy for practice, theory, and scholarship.
Introduces critical and analytical approaches, research methodologies with a focus on creative arts research, and research presentation formats.

Electives:

• Students select one of the following:
• BCM602 Songwriting:
Develops songwriting skills by exploring diverse creative processes and concepts. Students present songs using industry-standard software and document and examine the creative process.
• BCM606 Music Education Studies 1: Introduces music education in Aotearoa/New Zealand.
Examines skills and techniques for different ages and teaching contexts, including observation, reflection, lesson planning, and execution. Explores history, current perspectives, and other relevant aspects like multicultural music education and music therapy. Develops a business plan for a music teaching-related small business.
• CIB601 Creative Industries Business and Legal: Provides skills in managing a small business within creative industries like music, audio engineering, and production.
Students develop their professional business practice, industry knowledge, and employment opportunities by researching and analyzing material for creative industry applications.
• Additional electives: any Level 5 or above paper approved by the Programme Manager.

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary depending on the specific course, but typically include a combination of:

• Written assignments and essays
• Presentations
• Individual and group projects
• Practical demonstrations and performances
• Portfolios
• Examinations
The assessment criteria emphasize:
• Creative and critical thinking
• Problem-solving skills
• Technical proficiency
• Communication and presentation skills
• Collaboration and teamwork

Teaching:

The program employs a diverse range of teaching approaches to cater to individual learning styles and promote active engagement:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Masterclasses
• Individual consultations
• Project-based learning
• Group discussions
The teaching team comprises experienced professionals in the music industry, academic experts, and guest lecturers who bring real-world experience and diverse perspectives.

Careers:

Graduates can pursue various careers in the music industry, including:

• Performing musician
• Music teacher
• Composer and arranger
• Songwriter
• Music producer
• Sound engineer
• Audio/music journalist
• Music therapist
• Music business manager
The program also prepares graduates for further education at the Bachelor's or Master's level in music or related disciplines.

Other:

• The program emphasizes industry connections and provides opportunities for practical experience through internships, collaborations with external organizations, and industry events.
• Graduates benefit from access to SIT's well-equipped music and recording facilities.
• The program fosters a supportive and collaborative learning environment where students can develop their creative potential, technical skills, and professional networks.