Options booklet Options Booklet 2018 | Page 28

The Avon Valley School & Performing Arts College Music Technology – Technical Award B This qualification enables learners to develop skills, knowledge and understanding of the music technology industry. It’s 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. This qualification 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. It is a vocational qualification equivalent to GCSE at grades A*-C. To be awarded the NCFE Level 2 Technical Award in Music Technology, learners are required to successfully complete 4 mandatory units: A wide range of employers uses music technology skills, and there is even the opportunity to specialise according to music type and whether it is for entertainment, commercial or medical/ therapeutic purposes. Many employers offer fixed term contracts - for a series of concert performances, for example. Others offer more permanent contracts especially for the backstage, technical or management staff of a venue or destination. Other organisations that employ people with music technology skills include theme parks, themed tours, heritage locations and tourist venues. The role of technology is central to most performances and a wide variety of jobs exist in related fields, including the vital contribution of technicians. Musicians and music technicians are often required to ‘multi-task’ and need to understand different aspects of a performance, a recording or an event. With one of the best equipped Music departments to be found anywhere in the state education system, students are ideally placed to leave for further education and training with a considerable advantage over their peers. Our department, including a newly upgraded studio, is equipped with 52 brand new Apple iMac computers with leading music software including the industry standard Logic Pro X. As such, many of our recent ex-students are now studying Music Technology at university or are actively pursuing a career in this side of the industry. Contact Staff: Mr Collins 28