Music Maestros

Electives

Course introduction

David Wall
The Maestro Programme

The Maestro Programme is designed for those who are gifted and talented in music and want to progress further in their musical studies. On completion students will achieve a Rockschool Level 3 Certificate in Music Practitioners, which counts towards UCAS points and is accepted as an entry qualification for some universities and conservatories. Students will study a pathway of either composition, performance, music business or music technology. The course has close links with Higher Education providers including The Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester University, Huddersfield University in addition to a wide range of employers.

Who should follow the programme?

The Maestro programme is a specialist course for those who have a love of music. To access this elective you need to be studying A level Music or alternatively BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Music Technology.

What activities can you expect to experience?

Whilst studying this course, you will study a strand of music from composition, performance, technology or music business. You will create a unique project which allows you to follow your own path and create something you are interested in.

Composition

Composing Music (Styles)
Demonstrate skills to create finished musical works in defined styles evaluating the results and
on skill development
Work alone to compose two completed musical pieces, each a minimum of three and a maximum of four minutes
Describe the arrangement of the composed pieces
Evaluate how well the compositions created met the specified criteria

Performance

Live music performance and analysis. Students are required to demonstrate the skills to perform a set in a specific live environment and identify strengths and areas for improvement
Analyse personal aims in relation to the live performance of a musical set
Analyse a range of suitable, available performance situations
Undertake the live music performance
Draw conclusions on the success

Technology

Music Sequencing and Production: Demonstration use of digital audio workstation software to create a project file and evaluate the results
Use synthesis, sampling, quantisation, audio and midi editing, automation, the use of inserts and send effects and bouncing
Create a project log to explain the work undertaken

Business

Getting Work in Music: Establish strategies for generating sustainable income in the UK music industry
Evaluate three roles or functions within supply chain or areas of work in the music industry
Devise and explain personal strategies to generate revenue
Evaluate learning by assembling a portfolio

What about trips and visits?

Unique opportunities to meet experts in the field of music
A visit from the Royal Northern College of Music
A variety of trips and visits to other institutions

You will develop the following employability skills:

Perseverance
Independent working
Responsibility
Team work

You will also be able to undertake RSM Grade 5 Music Theory qualification

What will this elective lead to after SJR?

The skills and knowledge gained from the programme will support students in their application to study a music related course at university.