Level 3 BTEC Foundation Diploma in Music Performance
Course Code: Q100141
Key Information
Course type:
Vocational
Campus:
Sixth Form Campus
Start Date:
07 Sept 2026
Duration:
2 years
Attendance:
Full-time
Fees:
Free

Equivalent to one and a half A Levels, this course is great if you play an instrument and/or sing and want to develop your skills within a professional environment.
Units include:
- performing as an ensemble
- creating musical material
- using session styles
- planning a career in the music industry.
You will learn how to create the right sound as a band, for specific popular music genres, such as blues, rock, soul, country and punk music.
The course is also designed to challenge and develop the elements of your personality that will support you as a self-employed musician. You will get the opportunity to explore real life scenarios as a professional musician, and learn about the economic considerations you might have to navigate along the way.
We have extensive links with local recording studios, music businesses and music venues that will open doors into the industry or allow you to gain invaluable work experience.
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English language and ideally a Merit in Level 2 music. You must play an instrument or sing to a good level to study on this course and an audition is a key part of the application process.
You will have a 9.55am start, one lesson in the morning, one in the afternoon and a guaranteed 4pm finish. You will also have at least one morning and one afternoon per week free for private study.
Assessments will comprise 60% personal investigation and 40% externally set practical exam. Your coursework is internally assessed and externally moderated.
You could progress to some of the most prestigious music universities in the country, including BIMM, ACM, Leeds College of Music and Bath Spa, as well as progressing directly into industry. Previous students are working all over the world as performers, session musicians, recording engineers, music composers, vocal and instrumental tutors and teachers, as well as working for community workshop organisations.
Level 3 BTEC Foundation Diploma in Music Performance
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