Overview top

The course is vocationally led and includes extensive opportunities to expand your skills through industry and research based activities including touring, studio skills modules and theoretical study. Our industry standard facilities allow specialist modules to hone existing skills as well as develop new talents.

Modules are planned and structured to give students a systematic, coherent and cumulative experience.  Units on the Higher National Certificate include: Music Performance Studies, Improvisation in Music, Studio Recording and Engineering, Audio Mastering and Manufacture, Creative Arts Research Skills, Music in Context, Aural Perception Harmony and Composition.

Entry Requirements top

This course requires students to have a Level 3 qualification, preferably in a related subject, and a performance ability of Grade 6 minimum. Audition required. 

Professional Opportunities top

Successful completion will lead to Higher National Diploma study which provides greater breadth and specialisation for learners to apply their knowledge and practical skills in the work place.

You will gain industry experience by performing in numerous shows both internally in our performance venue as well as externally at music venues around the borough. 

Each year you will get the chance to tour playing venues in Scotland and England such as Cavern Club in Liverpool. We have also regularly visited and recorded in Abbey Road Studios in London as part of the course.

Throughout the year, we have many workshop and masterclass opportunities with professional musicians from the industry. Recently we have had Steve White (Paul Weller, The Who and Oasis), John Waugh (The 1975) and Yolanda Charles (Mick Jagger, Robbie Williams, and Nicole Scherzinger) into the department to chat and play for the students.

Further Information top

Programme leader contacts:

Tony Pottinger                  Tony.pottinger@stc.ac.uk            01914276048

Course fee: £6165*

Start date: September 2021

UCAS Information 

Course code: 9B3S

Institution code: T90

Campus name: South Tyneside College

Campus code:S

*This is subject to change

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