Music Technology AS and A Level offers a range of exciting opportunities to learn about sequencing, sampling, studio recording and production, composing, and the history of recorded music. There are three areas of study which underpin the course: 1. Recording and production techniques for both corrective and creative purposes 2. Principles of sound and audio technology 3. The development of recording and production technology As described above there are three areas of study which are then assessed over a series of four components: • Recording – students will develop skills in capturing, editing, and mixing sounds to produce an audio recording. • Technology-based composition – students develop skills in creating, editing and structuring sounds to develop a technology-based composition. • Listening and Analysing – students develop listening and analysing skills through the study of a range of production techniques. These are then assessed in a listening exam which covers music from 1910 up to the current day. • Producing and analysing – students study the techniques and principles of music technology through a series of written and practical tasks, in the context of audio and MIDI materials provided by Edexcel Pearson. Skills that will be developed • understand the principles of sound and audio technology and how they are used in creative and professional practice • understand a wide range of recording and production techniques • develop the skills to create and manipulate sound in imaginative and creative ways • develop skills in critical and analytical listening to evaluate the use of sound and audio technology in students’ own and others’ work • understand the interdependence of sound engineering knowledge, understanding and skills • understand the basic principles of acoustics, psycho-acoustics, and the digitalisation of sound • understand the latest developments in music technology and the impact they have on technology based composition, performance and the tonal qualities of recordings • develop and extend the knowledge, understanding and skills needed to create recordings and technology-based compositions which communicate effectively to the listener Post 18 opportunities Our students go on to study a wide range of music technology based courses which lead to careers in studio engineering, live sound, sound design, sound technician, DJ-ing, stage and set design, PA operation and acoustic design. Destinations of students in the last two years: Bournemouth University – Music and Sound Production York University – Music Technology Systems (Electronics) Birmingham City University – Audio Engineering University of Hertfordshire – Music and Sound Technology (Audio Engineering) Expenses Students need to purchase AS/A2 Edexcel Pearson Music Technology study guides.