FdA Creative Music
Course summary
This course builds the students' abilities to create and develop music, to put together suitable ensembles and to realise this work primarily through the medium of performance.
The course is centred on the application of practical knowledge and skills, alongside musical communication, contextual work, and analysis and industry studies. Emphasis is placed on ‘real world’ work, with input from music professionals from various disciplines. Students develop skills in critical analysis, enquiry, research and gain an understanding of the industry surrounding the art form.
Course structure
As well as the study of the language of music and its guiding principles, modules centre on the development of creativity in music generation, arrangement and performance. Music technology (particularly sequencing and notation packages) is used for the development and communication of musical ideas and for the submission of some assessed work.
The coursel also provides an understanding of the wider world of the music business, safe working practice, self-employment and management of music projects, personal development, plus skills relating to research and critical analysis.
Work placements
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 the student an opportunity to realise their musical projects and to extend their knowledge and understanding of the subject.
Assessment
Assessment evidence includes compositions and arrangements, portfolios of work, reports, essays, research and critical analysis, observational exercises, project files and developmental work.
After the course
As well as providing the skills necessary to work within the music sector, the course better equip 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) at UCS.