Music Technology

What is Music Technology A level about?

Are you...

• keen to create and record music?
• interested about the way popular musical style has evolved?
• someone who enjoys listening to music?
• fascinated to learn about the development of music technology?

If yes, then the A level Music Technology course is for you! Where else can you experiment with recording equipment and computer technology, arrange and compose music, and learn about popular music, from rock and roll to reggae, heavy rock to hip hop?

Music Technology plays a key role in music across the globe. The A level course is designed to open up a range of exciting and useful skills to students, and to encourage them to learn about the subject. Students, including those who do not play a traditional instrument, are encouraged to explore their musicality and create original music using technology.

What does the course consist of?

If you choose to study A Level Music Technology, you will follow the Edexcel specification. The course covers three areas of study:

The Principles and Practice of Music Technology

This area of study involves study and practice of MIDI sequencing, audio sequencing and multi-track recording, using equipment and technical processes to capture sounds and manipulate them to produce musical results.

Popular Music Styles since 1910

Study of Popular Music, including jazz, pop and rock. Students learn about the main musical and cultural characteristics of the major styles and trends of the past 100 years, ranging from ragtime and Dixieland Jazz through to recent developments in Club Music and Electronica.

The Development of Technology-based Music

The aim of this area of study is to help students understand more about the development and influence of technology on music since 1910. Study includes instruments involving technology, recording practice, and developments in contemporary art music.

In the AS year, students produce a portfolio CD – supported by an accompanying written logbook – containing the following:

• Sequenced Realised Performance: a sequenced performance of music from a notated score
• Multi-Track Recording: 8-12 track close-mic and direct-inject recording of a piece of the student's choice from Popular Music Styles since 1910
• Creative Sequenced Arrangement: an arrangement of a piece of music, using computer software, showing creative development and/or manipulation of the chosen musical material.

In the A2 year, students produce a second portfolio CD, again supported by a written logbook. This contains:

• Sequenced Integrated Performance: a sequenced performance, integrating live audio and other tracks, with sequenced tracks
• Multi-Track Recording: a 12-24 live track recording using close-mic and direct-inject capture
• Composing using Music Technology: a 3-4 minute composition based on a chosen task brief

The AS listening exam will assess knowledge of Popular Music Styles since 1910, and understanding of sequencing and recording techniques. The A2 practical exam requires students to use musical production software to review given musical material, comment on musical elements and technological processes, identify and correct mistakes, and produce a final stereo mix.

Whom does the subject suit?

The A level Music Technology course is suitable for anyone who has a keen interest in creating and recording music, and who wishes to broaden their experience and deepen their understanding of popular music styles and developments in music technology.

The A level Music Technology course is a highly practical course: coursework is worth 70% at AS. You'll be expected to support class study with independent study time in the computer suite and recording studio. The remaining 30% of the course is assessed in an examination at the end of the year. At A2, coursework is worth 60%, with the remaining 40% being assessed in a practical examination.

The course caters for a wide range of musical interests. All coursework tasks allow an element of choice, and the opportunity to apply your own style and musical ideas in creating and manipulating musical material.

In studying the various genres and styles, you'll be expected to have an understanding of relevant musical theory and terminology. If you have no GCSE in Music, or your music theory skills are limited, we will support you in building these skills to the required level. A commitment to developing these skills is essential.

How is Music Technology taught at d'Overbroeck's?

If you choose A level Music Technology at d'Overbroeck's, you'll be able to take advantage of specialised facilities and resources. A well-equipped music computer suite will allow you to use music technology software such as Sibelius and Cubase to compose and arrange music. There are sufficient resources to offer one computer per student in all Music Technology lessons. You will use the recording studio at our St. Giles building to learn about and use recording technology, as well as having access to excellent local facilities. For instance, you may find yourself completing some recording coursework at the Jacqueline du Pre Music Room at St. Hilda's College, Oxford University.

What books can I read to get a sense of the subject?

We use many books in the course of study. Of particular interest to prospective Music Technology students are two books published by Rhinegold publications. These are available on the web or from specialised music shops such as Blackwell's in Oxford:

• A Student's Guide to AS Music Technology for the Edexcel Specification
• A Student's Guide to A2 Music Technology for the Edexcel Specification

What websites are useful to look at?

There are many websites which provide supporting information about A level Music Technology. The most specific website for the course we offer is Edexcel's, where you will find a student's guide, course specifications, and examiner's reports.

Who will teach me?

The Music department is a lively and enthusiastic team that brings together areas of specialism.

The Music Technology course is taught principally by James O'Connor, the Music Technology coordinator. He has a Diploma in Sound Engineering and Production from City College, Manchester, and an HND in Music Technology. James also has experience as a producer and publisher, and enjoys composing and performing his own music. James teaches the sequencing, recording, listening, and popular music history components of the Music Technology course.

Study of theory and listening skills are supported by the Head of Music, Sue McKendrick She is a graduate in Music (Organ and Voice) and Classics from Lancaster University She studied for a PGCE in 2000 at Southampton University and has since been Head of Music at Plymouth High School for Girls and King Alfred's Sports College, Wantage.

What might the subject lead onto?

The A level Music Technology course provides an excellent basis for lifelong learning. There are many opportunities in Higher Education, and many career possibilities for those proficient in handling music technology. GCE Music Technology has been widely accepted by Higher Education providers and an A level in Music Technology will continue to provide valuable experience and preparation for students aiming for further study in the subject. Study in Music Technology could lead to careers in the record industry, sound engineering, record producing, and music education.