Topic “Performing Arts, Music and Media”

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Performing Arts, Music and Media

Community Music

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Foundation Degree, FdA (awarded by Plymouth University)

Level 

Level Four

UCAS Code 

W391

What's it all about? 

This course is for musicians who wish to work within the community music education sector. Building on existing musical skills you will learn the principals of teaching and learning, workshop skills, ensemble leading, project management, and special needs education. This unique two year programme is taught by community music professionals, who all have in-depth knowledge and experience. From classical to urban to folk to rock, you will apply your musical expertise in this exciting area of work to engage the wider community. Much of the course is very hands-on with work based learning at the core.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • a BA (Hons) in Sound and Music Production
  • an honours and/or foundation degree in a related subject
  • work at entry level as a member of an audio production team.

Entry Requirements 

  • 80 UCAS tariff points - any combination
  • a BTEC national award in a related subject
  • an NVQ level 3 in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years
Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The following modules are covered: 

  • community music workshop skills
  • applied music technology
  • teaching and learning
  • musicianship and ensemble skills
  • social policy, inequality and inclusion
  • theories and principles of youth engagement
  • community music and special educational needs.

Media

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

National Certificate - OCR

Level 

Level Two

What's it all about? 

This course is a fascinating introduction to the world of media. It will recognise your existing skills and interests and build upon them. Whether you are a budding film producer, radio DJ, photographer or designer this course is a fantastic start with excellent progression opportunities to level 3 courses. A great balance of practical and theory based sessions, you can rest assured that you will be learning within a cutting edge, buzzing environment.

 

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • the Extended National Diploma in Media at the College
  • other level 3 qualifications at the College
  • employment in junior media positions.

 

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this course you will need one of the following:

  • four GCSEs at grades D-F (including English and maths)
  • a BTEC foundation diploma
  • an NVQ Level 1/technical certificate
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

One year

Are there any exams? 

All units are internally assessed and externally moderated. Functional skills will also be assessed.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

This course gives an introduction to the professional world of the video, audio and print industries.

You will study the following six units:

  • introduction to media - explore and analyse a range of media products
  • media pre-production - create product ideas, research and plan to produce them
  • introduction to production - producing the planned projects
  • marketing and presenting media products - learn how to promote products to the right audience
  • exploring radio - research and produce radio programmes
  • exploring photography and digital imaging.

In addition to learning within a cutting edge, buzzing
environment, you will:

  • be taught by industry experienced staff
  • benefit from links with all local media providers such as the BBC, Radio Plymouth and The Herald
  • use state-of-the-art equipment
  • get fantastic opportunities to display your work in and outside College.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Media Studies

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

AS Level

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

The media has infiltrated almost every part of our lives. It affects what we read in the newspapers and magazines, how and when we watch TV, why and what we view on film, what we listen to on radio, where we surf to see the internet and how and what is advertised to us. Our fun, practical course takes a long, hard look behind the headlines to see how the media is constructed and how it seeks to influence us.

Progression 

Media studies is an enjoyable course which gives you the opportunity to develop skills in individual research, communication techniques and computer applications.The AS may be awarded as a discrete qualification providing points for entry to higher education. Successful students may progress to the one year A2 programme.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful at this level of course you will need one of the following:

· four to five* GCSEs at grades A*-C (including English and maths)

· an intermediate GNVQ in a related subject

· a BTEC first diploma in a related subject

· an NVQ level 2 / technical certificate in a related subject

· successful completion of an apprenticeship programme

· successful completion of the Gateway / Newstart programme

· equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

* A level candidates will be expected to have five GCSEs

Duration 

One year

Run On Demand? 

No

Roll On Roll Off? 

No

Are there any exams? 

Unit 1: written examination, focusing on the creation of the meaning of media texts and the different ways in which audiences respond to media. This will account for 50% of the overall marks.
Unit 2: you will research and execute a practical print product of their own devising. This will account for 50% of the overall marks.

for A2

Unit 3: Investigation and production coursework project.

Unit 4: Focusing on the British film, music and TV industry.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

This course introduces you to the main concepts and issues concerning the mass media.

Unit 1: modern media forms - this module looks at how media products are constructed and how they create meaning.
Unit 2: you will research and execute a media product of their own devising.

These units will be dealt with through detailed studies of several areas, including:
• the world of advertising
• newspapers and magazines
• television and film extracts
• internet pages
• production research using archives and the internet
• storyboarding and scriptwriting
• page layout and design • desk top publishing.

*Subject to conditions

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Live Sound

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Foundation Degree, FdA (awarded by Plymouth University)

Level 

Level Five

UCAS Code 

J934

What's it all about? 

Working in the highly competitive live sound music production industry requires persistence and single-mindedness! If you are determined to make it to the top in this profession then our course will train you to support your career aspirations. With practical sessions to back up the theory, you will learn the skills required for live sound mixing, setting up and operating sound systems and live recording typical of those found in any contemporary professional live sound environment. You will be taught by some of the best in the business! Our tutors have worked with Radio Head, Kasabian and on Glastonbury Festival’s Pyramid Stage, to name but a few.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • the second or final year of an honours degree in a related subject at a range of universities
  • work at entry level as a member of an audio production team.

Entry Requirements 

Dependent upon the course, we welcome applications from people who have:

  • 180 UCAS tariff points
  • a BTEC national award in a related subject
  • a 14-19 advanced diploma
  • an advanced Apprenticeship
  • an NVQ level 3 in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years

Are there any exams? 

Modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework, practical assignments, online tests and live classroom projects.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The following modules are covered:

  • sound sources and mixing technology         
  • acoustics and sound
  • audio production: crossovers, amplifiers and loudspeakers
  • sound optimisation
  • analogue live sound production
  • digital live sound: principles and operation 
  • live sound sector
  • digital live sound production.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Audio and Music Production

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

Foundation Degree, FdA (awarded by Plymouth University)

Level 

Level Five

UCAS Code 

J935

What's it all about? 

Based at dBS Music's multi-million pound recording complex in the city centre of Plymouth, this course focuses on the technical and creative skills required to become a successful music producer and sound engineer. Alongside the main qualification, you will also work towards gaining industry recognised Pro-Tools certification, giving you a competitive edge in the employment market.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • the BA (Hons) in Sound and Music Production degree at Plymouth University
  • the second or final year of an honours degree in a related subject at a range of universities
  • work at entry level as a member of an audio production team.

Entry Requirements 

Dependent upon the course, we welcome applications from people who have:

  • 180 UCAS tariff points
  • a BTEC national award in a related subject
  • a 14-19 advanced diploma
  • an advanced Apprenticeship
  • an NVQ level 3 in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years

Are there any exams? 

Modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework, in-class assessments, presentations, examinations, class tests and projects.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The following modules are covered:

  • critical listening
  • principles of sound
  • music and the entrepreneur
  • audio recording techniques
  • creative music production
  • acoustics and the recording environment
  • analogue recording methods
  • sampling and sound synthesis
  • audio and music production.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Live Events Production

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

NOCN Certificate in Progression/BTEC Subsidiary Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma

Level 

Level Two
Level Three

What's it all about? 

The course is designed specifically for the next generation of creative, managerial and technical personnel interested in working in theatre, corporate, conference, music and live events or anything inbetween. The programme aims to provide you with the knowledge, understanding and skills that you need to prepare for employment, higher education or
other avenues of progression.

We are fully committed to providing you with a first class education and industry relevant experience. This two year programme is made up of bite-sized chunks that each give you a recognised qualification.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • a foundation degree in live sound at the College
  • a foundation degree or BA (Hons) degree in event production or event management
  • a higher diploma at a recognised drama school
  • employment in the industry.

Entry Requirements 

Four GCSEs at grades D-F (including English and maths) for the level 2 course, four to five GCSEs at grades A*-C (including English and maths) for the level 3 course.

Duration 

Two years

Are there any exams? 

There are no exams. You will be continually assessed throughout each stage. This will include projects ongoing work, practice routines, tests and evaluation. Functional skills will also be assessed.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

You will study a range of subjects including :

  • sound production
  • lighting production
  • event management
  • production design
  • audio visual design
  • technical operation
  • set construction
  • career management.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Media

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

National Extended Diploma - OCR

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

This course is an exciting blend of practical and theoretical study. On a typical day, our students might be storyboarding an animation in the morning, hosting their own radio show at midday, and, after a brief meeting about their latest video project, will be taking photographs for their DVD cover, or filming their latest blockbuster in the afternoon.

Progression 

The national diploma will give you UCAS points equivalent to three A levels for entry to higher education. Successful completion of this course will qualify you for employment at entry level in the media industry or related vocational area or to progress to a degree or HND in a media related subject.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this course you will need one of the following:

  • four to five GCSEs at grades A*-C (including English)
  • a level 2 media qualification
  • a BTEC first diploma
  • an NVQ Level 2/technical certificate
  • successful completion of an apprenticeship course
  • successful completion of the Gateway / Newstart course
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

Two years

Are there any exams? 

All units are internally assessed and externally moderated.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

This exciting course gives you practical training and an in-depth insight into the professional world of video, audio and print production.

You will study many areas of media including:

  • video production
  • television
  • radio production (music and talk-based)
  • journalism
  • design
  • animation
  • photography and much more.

In addition, you will:

  • learn from industry experienced staff
  • benefit from links with all local media providers such as the BBC, Radio Plymouth and The Herald
  • use cutting-edge equipment
  • get fantastic opportunities to display your work in and outside College.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Creative Sound Engineering and Music Technology

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

BTEC First Certificate/Subsidiary Diploma/Extended Diploma

Level 

Level Two
Level Three

What's it all about? 

Want to work in the music/sound industries? Our modular course will give you a fascinating insight into the artistic and technical side of music production, sound engineering, and music/sound for film and live events. You’ll be encouraged to explore your creativity in our modern studio complex, dBs Music. You will be coached by tutors who have worked with the biggest names in the business such as Queen, Bjork, Led Zeppelin, Radio Head and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. This two year programme is made up of several qualifications taught in bite-sized chunks. This means that you will gain qualifications as you progress rather than just at the end.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • foundation degrees in live sound or audio and music production at the College
  • an honours degree in a related subject
  • employment in the industry.

Entry Requirements 

Typically, you will need four GCSEs at grades D-F (including English and maths) for the level 2 course, four to five GCSEs at grades A*-C (including English and maths) for the level 3 course. However, other qualifications and skills will be considered at interview.

Duration 

Two years

Are there any exams? 

The course has continuous assessment, including projects and examinations. Functional skills will also be assessed.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course aims to give you an insight into different areas of sound engineering and music technology, from studio production and live sound through to sound and music, to film and television. You will learn how to use start-of-the-art equipment that can be foundin  today’s audio industries, from microphones and mixing desks through to samplers and software.

The second year involves a more in-depth exploration of equipment, skills and techniques encouraging your own creativity and ways of working.

When can I study? 

Various days and times

Soundskills - The Music Leader

Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

National Certificate - OCN

Level 

Level Two

What's it all about? 

Soundskills - The Music Leader is a training course in community music offered in partnership with Plymouth Music Zone and City College Plymouth.

The course is ideally suited to practising musicians and voacalists who aim to work in music education, together with those who already work in the field and want to improve their existing skills.

The course enables you to:

  • develop your musical skills for a viable career path
  • develop skills to lead community music workshops
  • learn from professional community music leaders
  • develop further skills to enhance your existing experience as a musician
  • to train at Plymouth Music Zone - one of the region's leading community music education centres.

Progression 

On successful completion you may progress to:

  • employment at entry level as a freelance community music practitioner or for a community music organisation
  • further level 3 courses in music.

Entry Requirements 

In order to be successful on this course, you will need the following:

  • four GCSEs at grades D-F (including English and maths)
  • a BTEC foundation diploma in a related subject
  • a 14-19 foundation diploma
  • an NVQ level 1/technical certificate in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

Duration 

One year

Run On Demand? 

No

Roll On Roll Off? 

No

Are there any exams? 

There are no exams, learners are assessed in practical sessions and recording experiences and new skills/knowledge through a reflective diary.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The course is made up of modules which are delivered in hands on practical sessions. The modules are based around the following subjects:

  • how to Lead a Community Music Workshop
  • developing your own interpersonal skills
  • developing your leadership skills
  • developing performance improvisation Techniques
  • community music and disability
  • the community music sector
  • how to develop a community music project

In addition to these modules, you will be expected to shadow and assist in a number of music workshops throughout the course. This can be arranged through Plymouth Music Zone or at an alternative location.

When can I study? 

Evenings and Sauturdays

Students to Stage National Theatre Performance of GAP

Performing arts students at City College Plymouth are set to perform in a production of GAP by Alia Bano - a new play from a young playwright released by the National Theatre Connection project.

The play is a gritty, often adult themed insight into the lives and adventures of a group of young people on their gap year between school and university.

Live Events first year students have designed an ingenious set, lighting and sound work and the second year students are set to put on a fantastic performance.

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