Musical Performance Level 3
Course Overview
This Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Music Performance will help you develop your practical performance skills and creativity whilst providing a music industry qualification.
There are 4 units of work, made up of three compulsory core units together with 1 optional unit. These provide a strong foundation to progress to higher education and develop a portfolio career.
Course Components
Core Components:
- Practical Music Theory and Harmony
- Professional practice in the music industry
- Ensemble performance
Optional Components:
- Composing Music
- Solo Performance
- Improvising Music
Key Info
Minimum Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including:
- GCSE grade 5 in Music
- Or the ability to perform a grade 5 standard piece on your main instrument including voice.
Assessment
- 100% coursework – no written exam
- 2 externally assessed unit and 2-3 internally assessed units.
- Portfolio of coursework tasks with written and video evidence.
- Performances/concerts
Exam Board
Pearson Edexcel
Subject Lead
Mrs C Rutter & Miss J Tournay-Godfrey
Why Choose this Course?
This course is designed to provide a vocationally relevant education in contemporary music. There are no set works, or genre/repertoire restrictions, which means learners can study the genres they are interested in, allowing deeper focus on content that excites them.
This course would suit those students with a passion for contemporary music and an interest in all aspects of the subject. There will be exciting opportunities to help organise, promote and manage musical performances, experience workshops and lectures from visiting professionals, take part in visits to concerts and performances, and learn through practical music making.
Skills You Gain
During lessons you will develop your skills as a practical musician and the knowledge to use those skills. You will be encouraged to create an attitude of self-reflection which will aid your continuing development as a musician. You will be sure to improve your confidence in live performance, instrumental technique, organisation, and communication and presentation skills.
After Northgate
This course will provide students with tools to progress to higher education courses such as popular music, music technology and music business degrees.
There are many courses in higher education institutes offering degrees in popular music or music technology, enabling students to develop further the knowledge and skills obtained from the course preparing them for work in the music industry.
Examples of types of employment may include:
- Songwriter, recording artist, performer, session musician
- Producer / engineer
- Promotion, management / artist support services
- Live music production promotion and organisation