NCFE Level 1/2 Technical Award in Music Technology
This Level 2 Technical Award in Music Technology enables learners to develop skills, knowledge and understanding of the music technology industry. It is suitable for learners who are motivated and challenged by learning through hands-on experiences. The qualification will allow learners to gain practical skills in creating music using technology.
The Level 2 Technical Award is aimed at 14-16 year olds with an interest in music production and recording and is designed to sit alongside GCSEs in the Key Stage 4 curriculum. This qualification is also available to over 16s. It is a vocational qualification equivalent to GCSE at grades A*-C.
This technical award has been developed to meet the criteria set by the Department for Education (DfE) to be included in the key stage 4 performance tables. . Each grade has been assigned a points value. Please check the Register of Regulated Qualifications website (www.register.ofqual.gov.uk) for further information.
This qualification shows learners how to:
- Set up and use a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
- Create a musical project to a specified brief, using audio and MIDI editing tools
- Understand and experiment with musical elements in a chosen style
- Plan and undertake a studio recording session
- Use mixing techniques to make a multi-track recording
- Explore sound creation.
The knowledge and skills gained will provide a secure foundation for a career in the music technology industry.
Aims of the Course
Learners will develop skills in:
- Creating music using MIDI and audio in a particular style
- Using different software and equipment to create music
- Planning and undertaking a studio recording session
- Mixing of multi-track recording
- Planning and undertaking sound creation
- Reviewing their own and others’ work
- Communication
- Planning and experimentation.
Structure
This qualification consists of 5 content areas:
- Content area 1- Introduction to music technology and the music business
- Content area 2- The digital audio workstation (DAW)
- Content area 3- Musical elements, musical style and music technology
- Content area 4- Sound creation
- Content area 5- Multitrack recording
How the Course is Delivered
This course is delivered via a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) which provides access to case studies, learning materials and activities, presentations and web links. Online tutor support and guidance is provided throughout the course, where learners can interact with the tutors, get feedback on their progress and submit their work electronically. This helps you to build the relevant skills progressively, as you receive feedback and support from your tutor during this time.
Face to face interactions will be conducted through video sessions.
Assessment
Assessment includes portfolio of evidence and externally set and assessed question paper and practical assessment.
