Music (RSL)

Entry requirements

GCSE Music Grade 5, Level 2 BTEC Music Merit or RSL Music Practitioner, Grade 5 in instrument/voice exam.

If you do not fulfil any of these requirements but think you have the necessary skills, you can be accepted by auditioning.

Grade 4 GCSE Maths and English

What will I study?

The RSL Music Practitioners course is broken down into a number of units including core and optional units to a total of 90 credits. The course is the equivalent of one and a half A-levels.

Core units (45 credits)

• Live Music Performance and Rehearsals Skills
• Planning for a career in the music industry
• Optional units (up to a total of 45 credits)
• Auditioning for Music
• Session Musician
• Performing to Camera
• Understanding Musical Styles
• Leading a music-making activity

In these units, you will learn how to perform effectively on your instrument/voice; rehearse and display musicianship skills; initiate and develop repertoire; rehearse effectively and perform music live; understand contextual issues relating to music style, audience and the music industry; understand relevant aspects of music technology.

How will I be assessed?

Students complete two mandatory units (45 credits) and optional units to a total of 90 credits to complete the qualification. External assessments are completed through submission of coursework which is then sent to the exam board. There is no formal exam for this course. All internally assessed units are assessed by your teacher through the completion of coursework which may take the form of recordings of live performances, filmed footage, portfolios, written work and any other format which is relevant to the units being completed. Internally assessed units are internally verified and externally moderated.

Is this subject for me?

Students who are keen and passionate about music and the Music Industry and those with practical musical skills will find this course both rewarding and challenging. Students should be motivated and independent, able to manage their own time and work well as a solo performer and as a member of an ensemble. Students should be keen to extend their musical and research skills.

Where can this lead me?

Higher level Music or Music Technology-related courses (such as RSL or BTEC Level 4/5), alternatively, you will have the required skills for employment or apprenticeships within the Music Industry.

Music graduates have a wide range of career option including performer, teacher, music therapist, administrator, songwriter, conductor, composer, recording engineer, manager, promoter, or music publisher. It is also common to find music graduates in consultancy, finance, banking, music therapy and legal jobs. The range of roles is endless!

The variety of jobs in music business-related areas is constantly growing. Careers include: digital marketing, social media, PR, technology, label services, ticketing and merchandising.

What else is there?

The Music Department offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including an Orchestra, Choir, Boys Choir, Chamber Choir, Funk Band and Steel Band. You will have the opportunity to take part in concerts and performances in and around the local area, as well as the chance to be a part of the annual Performing Arts Tour.

Attendance to at least one extra curricular group is compulsory for all students studying RSL Level 3 Music Practitioners course.

The music department has good links within the local music community and opportunities to support bands and perform with other musicians frequently arise.