Popular Music Performance and Production

Program Overview

This comprehensive music production program provides a solid foundation in music theory, performance, and production techniques. Students develop essential skills in recording, songwriting, and music business, preparing them for careers as performers, producers, engineers, and more. The program emphasizes industry knowledge, transferable skills, and collaboration with experienced professionals.

Program Outline

Outline:

• Foundation Year:
• Digital Music (Introduction)
• Popular Music Production (Introduction)
• Musicianship
• Music Industries
• Music in Context
• Major Project
• Year One:
• Performance Techniques 1
• Introduction to Studio Recording 1
• Creative Music Industries
• Creative Performance 1
• Creative Music Production 1
• Theory and Listening Skills
• Year Two:
• Performance Techniques 2
• Advanced Studio Recording 1
• Music Portfolio Careers
• Creative Performance 2
• Creative Music Production 2
• Songwriting Techniques (Optional)
• Creative Sound Design (Optional)
• Year Three:
• Music Collaboration
• Advanced Music Production
• Entrepreneurship and Artist Development
• Major Project
• Introduction to Experimental Music Performance (Optional)
• Surround Mixing (Optional)
• Songwriting Portfolio (Optional)

Assessment:

• Live performances
• Individual presentations
• Group presentations
• Assignments
• Video submissions
• Music theory exercises
• Portfolios
• Recordings

Teaching:

• Directed learning
• Guided learning
• Collaborative learning

Careers:

• Music performer
• Music producer
• Session musician
• Songwriter
• Live sound engineer
• Mix engineer

Other:

• The course features extensive study of the music industry including copyright, contract law, and career pathways.
• Students are also expected to develop transferable skills in research, IT, presentation, teamwork, creative thinking, communication, and project management.
• The curriculum is delivered by an experienced course team, many of whom are active industry experts with professional experience in performance, studio and live sound, electronic sound design, and the business and culture of music production.
• Staff frequently engage with on-going research in music composition, performance, and production.
• The team’s industry links also enable a handpicked selection of students to record at the world renowned Abbey Road Studios.
• Students also have the opportunity to take part in the annual Anthems event, performing to their peers and members of the public.

• UK, EU (settled status) and Channel Island full-time fees: £9,250 per year
Fees will increase for year 1.
• International full-time fees: £16,125 per year