access to music further education prospectus 2014

FurtherEducationProspectusfor coursesstarting Sept 2014

DEDICATED TO MUSIC

‘It’s not like doing a music course in a normal college - it’s in a real music environment. All the tutors are musicians, your musical ambitions are taken seriously and there are great opportunities to go to industry events and meet people working in the industry.’

‘The tutors are brilliant - the best I’ve had in any education.’

‘It’s much more personal than other colleges. You feel you can talk to a tutor and actually be listened to.’

Grade 2 GoodOfsted Inspection 2013

Grade 1 OutstandingIndependent Schools Inspectorate 2012

All quotes in this prospectus are from Access to Music students.

‘Everyone here is passionate about music no matter what it is. That sort of vibe is always good to have when starting something - it gives inspiration.’

GIVING YOU MORE

Access to Music is now offering a range of Digital Media courses for young people who want to gain essential media skills while working on music-related projects. You will have opportunities to take part in video and photo shoots, generate designs for products and marketing, develop websites and create social media.

Access to Music gives you much more than just music. At Access to Music you will gain valuable Enterprise, Employability and Life Skills which will make you ready for the next stage of your career journey.

Photography:Richard Eccleston: www.richardecclestone.comCurious Photography: www.curiousphotography.co.uk

general informationputting music first .............................................................................08why choose us? ..................................................................................10industry partners ................................................................................12access to music centres .........................................................14open & taster days ..........................................................................21how to apply/fees .............................................................................22

our coursesoverview of courses ......................................................................25overview of qualifications .....................................................27

music coursesIntroduction to Music ..................................................................30Music Performance ........................................................................34Music Technology: Music Production ................42Music Technology: Sound Engineering ............48Artist Development .........................................................................52

business coursesMusic Business ....................................................................................60

media coursesDigital Media .............................................................................................68

traineeships & apprenticeshipsTraineeships ..............................................................................................74Apprenticeships ...................................................................................76

other informationkeeping you safe ................................................................................78opportunities for all ........................................................................79contacts ...........................................................................................................80

‘I chose Access to Music because I love music.’

CONTENTS

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‘I chose Access to Music as it has all the necessary resources to enable me to fulfil my aims within the music industry.’

Pony & Trap, Access to Music York

Access to Music is the UK’s leading popular music college. We are dedicated to music and digital media and by choosing to study with us you are guaranteed a great learning experience.

Whether you want to be a performer, a producer, a composer, a sound engineer, a music entrepreneur, or are looking for a career in the creative media industries, we have a course to suit you.

We understand the passion our students have for their music. We understand the drive and determination to master an instrument, or a piece of software or hardware. We recognise the ambitions of people who want to be the future of the music industry - from the artists and producers, through to the entrepreneurs who organise the festivals, tours and gigs, to those who sell the music and merchandise and those who design the products, websites and videos.

By choosing Access to Music you are making your first steps to stand out from the crowd by putting music first.

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PUTTING MUSIC FIRST

• Success rates on the main vocational programmes are higher than for similar providers and have improved consistently.

• Learners develop good music industry and technology skills in teaching sessions and at events

• Learnersbenefitfromteachers’excellentvocationalexpertise and knowledge of the music industry

Ofsted Report 2013

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Access to Music is special and unique. We have been delivering career-relevant training for over 20 years. Music isn’t just another subject we teach - it’s our focus and our passion.

our courses• Our courses are tailored to suit the needs of

musicians and people wanting to work in the creative industries.

• Learning is focussed on practical, real-life projects such as creating music for live performance, organising events, creating and promoting recorded music and generating promotional materials.

• We design our own music qualifications in partnership with Rockschool, the UK’s only rock and pop awarding body. The result is practical music courses which carry full UCAS points and have parity with other qualifications such as BTECs and A Levels. You also don’t need 5 GCSEs to enrol on our Level 3 courses.

• Unlike many colleges we don’t have exam entry requirements. Your musical skills are of more importance to us.

our feesIf you are aged 16 to 18 on 31st August 2014, you will not have to pay tuition fees. For more information on fees, please see page 23.

WHY CHOOSE US?

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our tutorsWe have talented and knowledgeable tutors who have direct experience of the music industry.

our centresWe have nine different specialist centres throughout the UK, so you get all the benefits of a large college at a smaller, friendly location.

our facilities Our centres are hubs of creativity, with great facilities - fully-equipped rehearsal studios, technology suites, recording studios and media centres.

our qualityAccess to Music is quality-assured by Ofsted and other inspectorates. In April 2013 Access to Music was graded 2 ‘Good’ by Ofsted, placing it in the top 25% of FE providers in the UK. Last year success rates on music courses were 81%. We were graded 1 ‘Outstanding’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in December 2012.

WHY CHOOSE US?

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‘Going to music college was my best chance to do what I love and this one seemed to be the best one.’

‘Best college for music in my opinion.’

‘It was the right place for me.’

INDUSTRY PARTNERS

Access to Music works with a variety of organisations and companies in the UK music industry to bring experiences and opportunities to our students. A selection are listed here.

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INDUSTRY PARTNERS

events organisations

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companies charities

Access to Music and War Child are delighted to announce a new partnership that will see the charity that protects children living in the world’s most dangerous war zones become the college’s official charity.

As well as fund raising activities, students will also have the chance to gain from Warchild’s extensive experience and contacts in the music industry, including major artists, festivals and events.

www.warchild.org.uk

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‘The centres have awesome staff who are passionate about music.’Student feedback to Ofsted

ACCESS TO MUSICCENTRES

‘I chose Access to Music because of how great the teaching, learning environment and opportunities are.’

Darlington

York

Manchester

Lincoln

NorwichBirmingham

Bristol

Brighton

London

‘The centres have great resources and tutors who know what they’re talking about.’

‘You get access to cutting-edge equipment,rehearsal rooms and studios.’

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‘I love the fact that everyone in the building is into music.’

OUR CENTRESAccess to Music has nine music centres located across England. Each centre is different, but all have a great atmosphere charged by the creativity of aspiring and eager musicians and music industry personnel.

Many centres operate as commercial music studios, meaning that your place of study is also a part of the local music industry.

london

Access To Music LondonBritish Academy of New MusicSugar House YardSugar House LaneLONDONE15 2QS

Our London centre is located In one of the most exciting areas of the city, next door to the 2012 Olympic village and adjacent to Three Mills Island film studios. Facilities boast eleven fully-equipped band rehearsal and two digital recording studios. There are also several Apple Mac technology suites, a media centre and break-out tuition rooms.

The centre can be accessed from the tube via Stratford, Bromley-by-Bow or Bow Road and by buses passing down Stratford High Street.

There are opportunities to perform and gain work experience at city venues, festivals and creative companies.

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birmingham

Access To Music BirminghamHeath Mill Studios68 Heath Mill LaneDigbethBIRMINGHAMB9 4AR

Heath Mill Studios is situated in the emerging creative quarter in Digbeth, just ten minutes walk from the city centre. This new state-of-the-art centre has six rehearsal rooms (fully equipped with drum kits, guitar and bass amps and PAs), a 24-track digital recording studio, two Apple Mac technology suites, media centres and a dedicated performance space. There are opportunities to perform and gain work experience at city venues, festivals and creative companies.

norwich

Access To Music NorwichEPIC114 Magdalen StreetNORWICHNR3 1JD

Access to Music Norwich is based at EPIC on Magdalen Street, about a ten minute walk north from the city centre. At EPIC, students can take advantage of fully-equipped band rehearsal rooms, a recording studio, a post-production suite and two Apple Mac technology/media suites. There are opportunities to perform and gain work experience at city venues, including EPIC and The Waterfront, as well as at festivals and creative companies.

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bristol

Access To Music Bristol309 Central ParkPetherton RoadHengroveBRISTOLBS14 9BZ

The centre operates as a commercial rehearsal and recording studios with six fully-equipped rehearsal rooms, a 24-track digital recording studio and a performance space. Upstairs there are Apple Mac technology/media suites and several teaching spaces. There are opportunities to perform and gain work experience at city venues, festivals and creative companies. The centre is located in Hengrove.

brighton

Access To Music BrightonEnterprise PointMelbourne StreetBRIGHTONBN2 3LH

Working in partnership with Brighton Electric, the ground-floor studios have five fully-equipped band rehearsal rooms, a 24-track digital recording studio and a performance space. Upstairs, there are Apple Mac technology suites and several teaching spaces. The centre is located about 15 minutes walk from the city centre, just off Lewes Road. There are opportunities to perform and gain work experience at city venues, festivals and creative companies.

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lincoln

Access To Music Lincoln3rd Floor Silvergate House32 ClasketgateLINCOLNLN2 1JS

Our East Midlands centre is located in the heart of Lincoln city centre in a building which also includes a night club and music venue. Our facilities boast three fully-equipped rehearsal rooms, two digital recording studios and Apple Mac technology/media suites. There are opportunities to perform and gain work experience at city venues, festivals and creative companies.

york

Access to Music YorkThe Jam Factory106 Eldon StreetYORKYO31 7NH

Last year Access to Music celebrated its tenth anniversary at the popular Jam Factory music studios on Eldon Street. Facilities include several band rehearsal rooms, a recording studio and an Apple Mac technology suite. There are opportunities to perform and gain work experience at city venues, festivals and creative companies.

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darlington

Access To Music DarlingtonThe Forum Music CentreBorough RoadDARLINGTONCo. DurhamDL1 1SG

This centre takes advantage of the great facilities offered at the Forum Music Centre. The purpose-built studios have 3 fully-equipped band rehearsal rooms, 2 digital recording studios, plus a large 170 capacity performance space/venue with a café/bar. There is also an Apple Mac technology suite. There are opportunities to perform and gain work experience at local venues, festivals and creative companies.

manchester

In Manchester we are offering Level 1 and Level 2 courses through an exciting partnership with Manchester City Football Club and other partners.

The Level 1 Introduction to Music course, delivered in partnership with Manchester City, provides opportunities to create music for MCFC events and is run from Harpurhey and Wythenshawe.

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open daysAll Access to Music centres have Open Days throughout the year where you can drop in and find out more about us and explore how we can help you achieve your goals.

Open Days include presentations, tours, performances,Q&As and music-making activities. There are also opportunities to apply for courses online.

Calendar of eventsPlease check website for details for your centre.Thursday events take place between 5-7pmSaturday events take place between 11am-2pmBooking is recommended for all events via:www.accesstomusic.ac.uk• October: Weds 2nd/Thurs 3rd• November: Weds 6th/Thurs 7th/Sat 9th• December: Weds 4th/Thurs 5th/Sat 7th• February: Weds 5th/Thurs 6th/Sat 8th• March: Thurs 6th/Sat 8th• April: Weds 2nd/Thurs 3rd• May: Sat 10th• June: Weds 25th/Thurs 26th/Sat 28th• July: Weds 9th/Thurs 10th 2014 (for Year 10s)• August: Weds 6th/Thurs 7th/Sat 9th

come and visit us

taster daysTaster Days are an opportunity to get a hands-on taster of what it’s like to study at Access to Music.

The sessions run in school holiday periods and feature practical activities, often around creating, producing and performing music.

CalendarPlease check website for exactdetails for your centre.Taster Days usually run from 10am-3pm. Please bring some lunch and a drink with you.Booking is recommended for all events via:www.accesstomusic.ac.uk• Thurs 31st October 2013• Thurs 20th February 2014• Thurs 29th May 2014

summer schoolsThese will take place week beginning 28th July.

BOOK NOW!www.accesstomusic.ac.uk0800 28 18 42

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‘It was easy to apply. You can do it online in simple stages. I also like the fact that they value ability and passion for music.’

www.accesstomusic.ac.uk

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You can apply for any of our courses by simply going to our websiteandfillinginanonlineapplicationform.

All you will have to do is choose which course you want to do and at which centre. You will then be guided through how to complete our online form.

We look forward to receiving your application.

Once you have applied, you can expect to be allocated an interview within two weeks.

You are expected to attend this interview and come prepared to demonstrate and talk about your musical skills.

You will be given more information and guidance about your interview by letter; there is also additional information on our website.

HOW TO APPLY

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If you are aged 16 to 18 on 31st August 2014, you will not have to pay tuition fees. However, there will be a charge to cover some extra-curricular activities and use of facilities outside of your main learning programme. This fee has not yet been finalised, but last year’s fee was £95 and it is likely to be around that amount.

In addition to this fee, adult learners (aged 19+) will be required to pay a tuition fee. All of our fees are highly competitive with those of other colleges and education providers. Please see our website for more details of fees.

FEES

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‘Courses are built around what you want to do, rather than forcing everyone to be the same.’

‘The course content is perfect - I have learned more already than I ever expected to know.’

OUR COURSES

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The following section lists the music, business and media courses we offer, plus information on our traineeships and apprenticeships. However, we launch new courses throughout the year so please check our website for the latest updates. Please note that courses will only run in centres if there is sufficient recruitment.

Music Courses • Our Qualifications .........................................27• Introduction to Music ....................................30• Music Performance .......................................34• Music Technology – Music Production .........42• Music Technology – Sound Engineering .......48• Artist Development .......................................52

Business Courses• Music Business .............................................60

Media Courses• Digital Media .................................................68

Traineeships ..................................................74

Apprenticeships ...........................................76

OUR QUALIFICATIONSAccess to Music designs its own qualifications in partnership with awarding body, Rockschool. These qualifications are all government-approved qualifications which have full parity with GCSEs, BTECs and A Levels.

The advantages are:• We can ensure the content meets

the needs of modern musicians, producers, technologists and entrepreneurs. We regularly update the content based on feedback from students and tutors.

• Level 3 (A Level equivalent) qualifications are not restricted by entry requirements, unlike BTECs which require 5 GCSEs

LEVELS• Level 1 = GCSE (grades D-G)• Level 2 = GCSE (grades A-C)• Level 3 = A Level, BTEC National

CREDITS & UCAS POINTSLevel 3 qualifications have credits and UCAS points in line with completing 3 A Levels or a BTEC Nationals. The UCAS points are:• Pass = 120• Merit = 240• Distinction = 360• Distinction* = 420

PROGRESSION TO UNIVERSITYTwo-year Level 3 courses provide UCAS points for students to progress to university or higher education college. Access to Music has a good reputation for students progressing to popular music and music technology courses at university, such as:· Middlesex University· Brighton Institute of Modern Music· University of Gloucestershire· Leeds Metropolitan· University of Chester· London College of Music· Academy of Contemporary Music· ICMP· Surrey University· Northampton University· University of Wolverhampton· University of Chichester· Falmouth University

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‘I chose Access to Music because I’d heard that it’s one of the country’s best music colleges.’

The Pretty Shapes, O2 Academy

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music courses

‘Access to Music seemed down to earth and open to individuality, which appealed to me. I wanted to learn to produce my own sounds and develop a style of my own. They offered that.’

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The perfect introductory course for anyone who wants to start writing, playing and recording music while developing their job and life skills.It is ideal for budding producers and music technologists, as well as beginner vocalists, MCs, guitarists, bassists, singer/songwriters, drummers and keyboard players.

The course is also designed for anyone who has found conventional school qualifications, such as GCSEs, to be unsuitable and for those not currently in education, training or employment. You will be supported throughout your studies by experienced, inspirational staff.

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Introduction to Music: overview

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music courses

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‘I was looking to better myself musically and was ready for a change. The thought of being surrounded by people with the same passion as me every day was really exciting.’

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ContentYou will cover all the basics of music making from musicianship through to getting started with music production. The course is designed around projects, which help you to develop other skills, including communication, maths and employability.

QualificationsThis course is assessed through a variety of qualifications which you will achieve by undertaking interesting real-life projects. Assessment is all through course work – there are no exams.

Entry requirementsThere are no formal entry requirements other than a passion for music and a desire to gain skills. If you wish to study as an instrumentalist, then you will usually need an instrument (e.g. guitar, bass etc) and have some ability in being able to play it. If you are a producer, then it is expected that you will probably have used some sort of music software to create music.

Locations & durationThis course is offered at all centres, three days per week over 35 weeks - September to June (daytime).

Next stepsThe course offers progression to our intermediate courses or to GCSEs or into apprenticeships and employment.

Introduction to Music: course details

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music courses

3434

‘The course is awesome. I am a practical person and the course suits me well - it is easier for me to learn this way.’

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Our Music Performance courses are renowned for their exciting content and opportunities. They are perfect for any musician looking to develop their skills:• Centred around artist and band-based rehearsals in fully-

equipped rehearsal rooms.• Ideal for young musicians aged 16+. We work with guitarists,

bass players, keyboard players, drummers, vocalists, singer/songwriters, percussionists, horn players, string players. Whatever, you play we can help you develop your skills!

• For musicians into creating and performing any style of popular music, from metal, indie and alternative to folk, funk, soul, jazz and blues.

• Based around real-world projects with opportunities to record and perform. Performances include gigs in local venues to opportunities to perform at festivals such as Glastonbury and Latitude. Our students also get to perform at industry showcases, such as the Island Records talent showcase.

• Designed to give you more than music in that you will also gain valuable job skills and life skills.

• Linked to nationally-recognised music qualifications.• Taught by musicians at 8 UK locations and graded ‘Good’ by

Ofsted.

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Music Performance: overview

music courses

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Call Me UniqueExceptional singer/songwriter from Birmingham with numerous credits including playing Glastonbury Festival 2013, touring Poland and supporting Rihanna at the LG Arena on her Diamonds tour.

CoursesThe following Music Performance courses are available:• Music Performance (Level 2) A one-year GCSE-equivalent full-time course

for musicians and singer/songwriters with limited experience.• Music Performance (Level 3) A one or two-year A Level-equivalent full-time

course for musicians and singer/songwriters with more experience and skills.

ContentThe courses cover musicianship, songwriting, rehearsal, repertoire development, recording and performance with technology, business awareness and promotion.

QualificationsCourses are assessed through nationally-recognised Rockschool qualifications with assessment based on course work rather than exams. Level 3 courses have equivalence with BTECs and A Levels and carry full UCAS points. You may also be required to undertake GCSE-equivalent qualifications in English and Maths.

Entry requirementsOur main criteria is an ability and passion for music and a dedication to gain skills. There are no formal GCSE requirements for Level 3 courses, unlike BTECs which require 5 GCSEs. You will be invited to an audition/interview where we will assess which course is best for you.


Next stepsProgression from the Level 2 course is to further study at Level 3. Progression from Level 3 courses can be to undergraduate study including the following Access to Music courses:• Artist Development (Level 4)• BMus Popular Music (Birmingham & London)• BA (Hons) Popular Music Performance (RNCM Manchester)• BA (Hons) Music Business (Birmingham & London)

Music Performance: course details

music courses

Ollie RudgeOllie is a talented singer/songwriter from Birmingham who is following in Ed Sheeran’s footsteps by winning the 2013 Island Records Best Newcomer award. Ollie writes emotive songs driven by complex guitar rhythms.

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Ed SheeranEd Sheeran is now a household name on both sides of the Atlantic, but in 2009 he was still making a name for himself and he decided to come to Access to Music London to do the Artist Development course. He left after completing the course, having been an excellent student and well on the road to success.

‘I wanted to get some experience - it sounded like it would be a wicked course and it gave me the opportunity to move to London and gig every night. It gave me the first push and I loved the freedom. Obviously you are there to learn, but they understood that half of the learning you needed for the industry was outside the classroom with gigs and studio time.’

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‘It’s a college with a huge reputation - the likes of Ed Sheeran have really raised its profile. They also have a great understanding of, and experience in, music - the tutors are speaking from experience, not just a text book.’

meet our students

music courses

Rita OraRita Ora has quickly become one of the hottest names in UK music. From her appearance on the DJ Fresh number 1 Hot Right Now to her own solo number 1s R.I.P. and How We Do (Party), plus a number 1 album, Rita has had swift and deserved success. 2012 saw her headlining major festivals, such as V, while appearing frequently on TV, while 2013 has seen her undertake a national tour and start work on her 2nd album. She has also been chosen as the face of Madonna’s Material Girl clothing collection. Widely tipped as the UK’s answer to Rihanna, Rita started off her career on a Music Performance course at Access to Music London.

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Laura WelshLaura has recently signed to Polydor Records and her debut EP Cold Front has been hotly tipped by the media including The Metro and The Times. She studied with Access to Music in Birmingham.

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meet our students

music courses

424242

‘It was the best college for me to further my skills in music production.’

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Access to Music offers two types of Music Technology course to suit your career aims.The Music Production courses are:• For those wanting to create and release music using

software and hardware in dedicated Apple Mac technology suites.

• Ideal for young producers/composers aged 16+ looking to create electronic digital music.

• Perfect for producers into creating and recording any style from drum ‘n’ bass, techno, dubstep and house to media, film and advert music.

• Based around real-world projects with opportunities to record and release tracks, undertake remix projects and create music for media applications such as adverts and computer games. Our students also get to feature at industry showcases, such as the Island Records talent showcase.


• Linked to nationally-recognised music qualifications.• Taught by music technologists at 8 UK locations and

graded ‘Good’ by Ofsted.

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Music TechnologyMusic Production: overview

music courses

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‘In some way my belief in Access to Music is so strong I’d say it chooses you - it’s a calling!’

CoursesThe following Music Production courses are available:• Music Technology (Level 2) A one-year GCSE-equivalent full-time course for

producers/composers with limited experience.• Music Production (Level 3) A one or two-year A Level-equivalent full-time course

for producers/composers with more experience and skills.

ContentThe courses cover musicianship, music software and hardware, repertoire development, recording, mastering and realization, business awareness and promotion. At Level 2 you will also do some sound engineering content.


Entry requirementsOur main criteria is an ability and passion for music and technology and a dedication to gain skills. There are no formal GCSE requirements for Level 3 courses, unlike BTECs which require 5 GCSEs. You will be invited to an audition/interview where we will assess which course is best for you.


Next stepsProgression from the Level 2 course is to further study at Level 3. Progression from Level 3 courses can be to undergraduate study including the following Access to Music courses:• Artist Development (Level 4)• BA (Hons) Music Technology (Norwich from 2015)• BA (Hons) Music Business (Birmingham & London)

Music TechnologyMusic Production: course details

music courses

Tom FlynnA Birmingham-born producer/remixer and DJ, Tom moved from DJing to production when he joined Access to Music. Tutored by Lee Fisher of Mother fame, he soon became enthralled at the possibilities of creating his own house music. Tom has since signed to Pete Tong’s Black Butter Records, while also remixing for Andy Caldwell and Gram’ma Funk. ‘To just have people on the other side of the world, sitting in their bedroom loving my music, just like I used to do growing up, was and still is my main goal - it’s about making good music!’.

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meet our students

Ashley ‘Woz’ WestlakeA Bristol bass producer who caught the attention of BB Records after his RackNRuin Territory remix competition entry blew them away. BB Records commented: ‘It’s rare to find a sound both so unique, fresh and at the same time, so well produced. You know a Woz production when you hear it’. RWD magazine has tipped him as one of the names to watch in 2013.

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music courses

484848

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Access to Music offers two types of Music Technology course to suit your career aims.Our Sound Engineering courses are:• For those looking to get into live and studio sound based

around audio mixing and processing in recording studios and live venues.

• Ideal for young technicians aged 16+ looking to gain skills in audio environments such as recording studios, live venues and festivals.

• Based around real-world projects with opportunities to work with music artists and producers both in the studio and in professional venues.


• Linked to nationally-recognised music qualifications.• Taught by music technologists at 8 UK locations and


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Music TechnologySound Engineering: overview

music courses

CoursesThe following Sound Engineering courses are available:• Music Technology (Level 2) A one-year GCSE-equivalent full-time course for

sound engineers with limited experience.• Sound Engineering (Level 3) A one or two-year A Level-equivalent full-time

course for sound engineers with more experience and skills.

ContentThe courses cover acoustics, micing and levels, mixing, processing, sound reinforcement, mastering, business awareness and promotion. At Level 2 you will also do some music production content.


Entry requirementsOur main criteria is an ability and passion for music and technology and a dedication to gain skills. There are no formal GCSE requirements for Level 3 courses, unlike BTECs which require 5 GCSEs. You will be invited to an audition/interview where we will assess which course is best for you.


Next stepsProgression from the Level 2 course is to further study at Level 3. Progression from Level 3 courses can be to undergraduate study including the following Access to Music courses:• BA (Hons) Music Technology (Norwich from 2015)• BA (Hons) Music Business (Birmingham & London)

Music TechnologySound Engineering: course details

music courses

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Artist Development: overview

Music artists have always relied on A&R teams and management to help them develop their music and their potential. Today few artists gain from this process as record labels and production companies have been forced to cut costs. The solution is our Level 4 Artist Development programme, which replicates the typical processes of artist and repertoire development within a robust educational framework.You will work under the close guidance of a highly-experienced team of musicians, industry professionals and creatives who will support you as you begin to explore and investigate your work and its potential.

The course is ideal for music artists such as singer/songwriters, producers/composers and groups or group members.

Please note that you can study this course free of tuition charges if you are aged 17 on the 31 August 2014. There is a fee for 19+ students, but it is much less than annual fees for degrees.

music courses

Artist Development: course details

ContentYou will undertake a journey to assess and redefine yourself as a music artist. This will involve self-assessment, analysis and development of repertoire and target planning to achieve agreed goals. The aim by the end of the course is that you will have a more clearly defined music product and brand with the beginnings of a dedicated fanbase.

QualificationsThe course is assessed through a nationally-recognised Level 4 Rockschool qualifications with assessment based on course work rather than exams.

Entry requirements• At least 17 years of age.• Pass in GCE A level (A2) in 2 subjects (or 2 Scottish Advanced Highers), or a

Rockschool Level 3 Music Practitioner qualification, or a National Diploma in a music-related subject.

• Applicants with non-standard qualifications and/or experience are encouraged to apply and will be considered if they can demonstrate appropriate ability through their application.

• Students who do not have English as a first language are expected to meet the IELTS 5.5 standard.

Locations & durationThis course is offered at all centres, three days per week over 35 weeks - September to June with options for daytime or evening delivery.

Next stepsCombined with other Level 4 qualifications, this course offers progression to undergraduate courses, including Access to Music’s own degrees, as well as into apprenticeships and employment.

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music courses

Jamie MorrisonIn September 2012, Jamie Morrison took over the drum stool for top alternative rock band, Stereophonics, replacing Javier Weyler. However, Jamie didn’t just land the job by chance. He played a pivotal role in the rise of The Noisettes, playing on the 2009 number one album Wild Young Hearts with its hit Go Baby Go (Don’t Upset The Rhythm). With The Noisettes he appeared on top TV shows including Jonathan Ross and Jools Holland.

Jamie left The Noisettes in January 2010 to work on KT Tunstall’s Tiger Suite album. He then

went on to drum for Welsh star Duffy, as well as Motown legend Martha Reed and the Vandellas. He has also toured with upcoming UK artist Rebecca Ferguson and is endorsed by Premier drums.

Jamie started his career by coming to study at Access to Music, initially at our centre in Cambridge, and then on the Artist Development course in London. He arrived to us with an upbringing in jazz, but through his work with other musicians at Access to Music, he began to broaden his repertoire and style to become the internationally-renowned musician he is today.

Louis La RocheLouis La Roche is a producer, remixer and DJ with a glamorous roster of artist credits to his name. Louis has created remixes for Basement Jaxx, VV Brown, Mercury Awards prize winner Speech Debelle, Madonna and The Noisettes.

He is also a talented creator of original music with a number of single and EP releases which have been played out by major DJs such as Armand Van Helden, Breakbot and Wolfgang Gartner and his tracks have been featured on Ministry of Sound compilations.

One interesting project Louis is working on is an album sampling Paul McCartney records, spanning five decades of material. Each track will contain instrumentals/stems sampled from Paul McCartney where the components, such as drums, bass, keys and vocals are all taken from different tracks. He also plans to make a film about it.

Louis studied at Access to Music Norwich and then went on to the Artist Development course in London.

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meet our students

music courses

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music business courses

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Our Music Business course is a great way to learn about the UK music industry and how to operate in it:• For those wanting to get a general background to

working in the UK music industry.• Centred around gaining an insight into the recording and

live sectors, with opportunities in areas such as event management and music journalism.

• Ideal for young people aged 16+ looking to work for businesses and organisations in the UK music industry, from record labels, venues and festivals to music magazines and retail.

• Based around real-world projects with opportunities to organise events, run labels and create digital businesses, plus opportunities to work at festivals such as Glastonbury and Latitude.


• Linked to nationally-recognised music qualifications.• Taught by music industry personnel at 8 UK locations

and graded ‘Good’ by Ofsted.

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Music Business: overview


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CoursesThe following Music Business course is available:• Music Business (Level 2) A one year GCSE-equivalent full-time course

for young people wanting to work in the music industry with little or no experience and skills.

• Music Business (Level 3) A one or two-year A Level-equivalent full-time course for young people wanting to work in the music industry with some experience and skills.

ContentThe course covers UK recording industry, UK live music industry, UK law and music organisations, event management, marketing and promotion and setting up a business.


Entry requirementsOur main criteria is an ability and passion for music, business and enterprise and a dedication to gain skills. There are no formal GCSE requirements for Level 3 courses, unlike BTECs which require 5 GCSEs. You will be invited to an interview where we will assess which course is best for you.


Next stepsProgression from the Level 2 course is to further study at Level 3. Progression from the Level 3 course can be to employment, apprenticeships or undergraduate study including the following Access to Music course:• BA (Hons) Music Business (Birmingham & London)

Music Business: course details


Takeover EntertainmentAccess to Music students go on to work in all areas of the industry. Archie Lamb and Jack Foster came to Access to Music Norwich to develop their music skills. While there they got hooked on the business side of music and in 2006 they decided to set up their own artist management company.

The new company’s coup was to sign and mastermind the phenomenal rise of UK grime artist,

Tinchy Stryder. They signed him to a joint publishing deal with EMI and the result was a string of best-selling singles and live appearances.

More recently Takeover Entertainment signed a joint-deal with Jay Z and Roc Nation to create a European record label called Takeover Roc Nation. Takeover Entertainment also manage Giggs, Dappy and ex-Access to Music student and up-and-coming star, Ria Ritchie.

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Gabbi Marsden‘When I started the Music Business course I wasn’t sure what I wanted to go into. I knew I wanted to work with bands/artists and help them get heard. I also liked finding out new bands and reading/writing about them. So the whole music journalism area seemed to fit my career goals. The major unit that really helped was the Music Press and Journalism. From this I learned about different types of journalistic style.’

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meet our students


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media courses

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Access to Music is about more than music. We are now offering digital media courses in a unique creative industries context:• Based around media projects for the music and

creative industries. You will get to work on video and photoshoots for music artists, create designs for albums, posters and merchandise and generate web and social media sites and content. You will also work on exciting animation and computer games projects.

• Ideal for young people aged 16+ looking to work in digital media and the creative industries.

• Designed to give you more than media in that you will also gain valuable job skills and life skills.

• Linked to nationally-recognised qualifications• Taught by media specialists at three UK locations and


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Digital Media: overview

media courses

CoursesThe following Digital Media courses are available:• Digital Media (Level 2) A one-year GCSE-equivalent full-time course for

young people wanting to work in digital media with some experience and skills.

• Digital Media (Level 3) A one or two-year A Level-equivalent full-time course for young people wanting to work in digital media with more experience and skills.

ContentThe courses cover website design, graphic design and illustration; video production and digital photography, plus animation and computer games design. You will work on projects, some in collaboration with music students.

QualificationsCourses are assessed through nationally-recognised BTEC qualifications* with assessment based on course work rather than exams. Level 3 courses generate UCAS points for entry to higher education. You may also be required to undertake GCSE-equivalent qualifications in English and Maths. *TBC

Entry requirementsOur main criteria is an ability and passion for all aspects of digital media and a dedication to gain skills. You will be invited to an interview where we will assess which course is best for you. Level 3 courses will require 5 GCSEs for entry.

Locations & durationThis course is offered at Brighton, Lincoln and London, three days per week over 35 weeks - September to June (daytime).

Next stepsProgression from the Level 2 course is to further study at Level 3. Progression from Level 3 courses can be to undergraduate study including digital media degrees.

Digital Media: course details

media courses

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traineeships & apprenticeships

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The focus of Traineeships is personal skills development to improve your employability. This is done by:• providing job search support• providing employability support• personal and social development• providing a high-quality work placement of at least 6

weeks duration but no more than 5 months in total• studying English and Maths as part of the programme

(unless the trainee has already gained GCSE A* - C in both subjects)

Access to Music now offers traineeships for young people aged 16-24 who:• are not currently in a job and have little work

experience• arequalifiedbelowLevel3(e.g.ALevelorequivalent)• have a reasonable chance of being ready for

employment or an apprenticeship within six months of taking a traineeship

The maximum duration of a traineeship is 6 months. On successful completion the trainee will automatically be referred to an interview with the host employer.

Traineeships: overview

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access apprenticeships

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Access Apprenticeships specialises in creating apprenticeship opportunities in the creative industries and other sectors, including:

• creative and digital media• the music industry• live events and promotion• social media and digital marketing• technical theatre• community arts management• business administration• team leading

The benefits of being an apprentice are:

• yougainqualificationsatthesametimeasgettingvaluablework experience

• you get paid a minimum wage of £95 a week and the tuition is free

Apprenticeships are available at various levels and last a minimum of nine months. If you are interested, please join our talent pool where we aim to match apprentices to employers. Please send your details and CV to [email protected]

All Access Apprenticeships vacancies will be posted on the National Apprenticeship Service website: www.apprenticeships.org.uk/

Apprenticeships: overview

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‘I feel like the tutors understand me and what they are teaching me, which helps me have a strong sense of trust in them.’

keeping you safe

Access to Music believes that the welfare of the individual is paramount. We recognise our duty and responsibility to protect when there is a cause for concern.

All staff and students have the right to:• Live and work in a safe environment and be

protected from harm.• Experience emotional well-being.• Feel valued and be supported by a network of

professional relationships.• Have a positive self-image.• Have a secure sense of cultural, social and racial

identity.• Develop good interpersonal skills and confidence in

social situations.

We believe: • That all staff and students without exception have

the right to protection from abuse regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, age, sexuality or beliefs.

• That all concerns, and allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to appropriately.

We are committed to the principle of safe recruitment, selection and vetting of all staff.

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KEEPING YOU SAFE

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Access to Music aims to promote equality and diversity in everything we do by:

• Creating a positive and welcoming environment for people to learn, work and engage across their wider community.

• Treating all people fairly and with respect, giving them all an equal opportunity to learn and progress.

• Encouraging people from different backgrounds to continue to learn and to achieve their potential in life.

• Adhering to legislation and regulations, and supporting legal requirements.

• Reflecting our commitment to equality and diversity in all of our courses and activities.

• Working proactively to combat discrimination, encouraging and promoting equality and celebrating diversity.

Access to Music emphasises inclusiveness, openness and fairness, offering a positive outlook on the many differences, as well as similarities, that can affect how people interact with each other. We value the abilities and skills that all individuals bring with them. Our courses and opportunities are designed to be accessible to everyone regardless of gender, race, disability, physical ability, mental capability, education, sexual orientation, religious belief, values, age, personality, experiences and culture.

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OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL

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Documents

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