Overview
Creativity is the element that contributes most to that musical ‘stand-out’ quality – whether it is the construction of a bass part or chord sequence, the soundtrack to accompany film or images, the instrumentation used in an ensemble or how a live set is put together to make a whole performance.
It relies on control of a combination of elements – imagination, coupled with knowledge of musical language, use of technology and resources plus critical analysis, personal skills, time management, project planning etc.
This two-year, full-time programme concentrates on developing the ability to originate and realise original music principally through the medium of live performance or recording. This entails the study of creative processes and the musical communication/comprehension required; the use of music technology to compose, experiment and arrange; an understanding of performance processes and PA systems, and studies in the use of instrumentation in arrangement.
Projects take place in both years – the first consisting of preparation and participation for performance featuring the students’ original works, with the second involving the development of suitable live ensembles and the organisation and realisation of a number of performances.
This programme seeks to bring these elements together into one course and give students the opportunity to harness and develop their own creative skills, providing that ‘cutting edge’ in this competitive sector, where copyright laws and publishing agreements demonstrate that the writers are the earners!
Content and Modules
The FdA Creative Music requires the equivalent of two days a week attending classes (project/assessment work taking place outside this time) with two semesters of 12 teaching weeks per year.
A vital part of the course is work-based learning, involving the performance of self-generated music and the preparation for, and organisation of, music events. This forms an invaluable part of the course, offering an opportunity to realise musical projects and to extend knowledge and understanding of the subject.
As well as providing the skills necessary to work within the music sector, the course better equips graduates to compete in the work place in respect to their creative and technical abilities, their understanding of the issues surrounding the industry and the individuals within it. Graduates will have developed transferable skills related to IT, communication, teamwork and self-management and can progress on to the BA (Hons) Professional Studies (Progression Route) or the BA (Hons) Arts Practice (specialising in music) at UCS.
The first year builds skills towards an end-of-year project involving the performance – either live or in the studio – of original works. The second year develops these skills towards the planning, development and preparation of further project realisation, with the student taking more ownership of all stages, from concept to final performances and evaluation.
On this journey is the development of music language, elements of creativity, writing for other media, building arrangements, putting instrumentation/ensembles together, rehearsal techniques, project planning, music research and many other elements.
First year modules include:
The Creative Process; Performance Preparation & Process; Music Language; Personal Development; IT Skills for Composition and Arrangement; Project One.
Second year modules include: Music Generation and Development 1 & 2; Live Sound for Musicians; Planning and Preparation; Research and Problem Solving; Project Two.
Further Information
If you would like further information about the course please contact UCS Great Yarmouth| directly.
What is included in your tuition fees
At UCS your tuition fees provide access to all the usual teaching and learning facilities that you would expect. However, there may be additional costs associated with your course that you will need to budget for.
Read full details of the included and additional costs for FdA Creative Music|
Please note, UCS reserves the right to change this information as and when required.