At St Edward’s, our Music course will equip you with the skills to perform confidently on stage, compose and arrange music, understand the technical aspects of music production, and gain insight into the music industry. You'll also develop critical listening skills, learn to collaborate effectively with other musicians, and prepare for further education or a career in the music field.

Why Study BTEC Music Performance?

In Music you will learn and gain cognitive and problem-solving skills, using critical thinking, approaching non-routine problems by applying expert and creative solutions, using systems and technology. You will gain interpersonal skills; communicating, working collaboratively, negotiating and influencing, self-presentation. Finally, you will learn intrapersonal skills; self-management, adaptability and resilience, self-monitoring and development. The course is the equivalent to one A-Level and students can achieve Distinction*, Distinction, Merit or Pass.

Music is a great choice if you are interested in enhancing your performance abilities and deepen your understanding of the music industry. This program focuses on developing practical skills in music performance, composition, and arrangement, while also covering technical aspects of music production.

The course content requires you to engage in a variety of performance opportunities, both solo and ensemble, and will learn to critically analyse and improve your work. Additionally, the course includes modules on music theory, industry insights, and professional practice, equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue further education or a career in music.

This course is particularly suitable if you are looking for a hands-on experience, looking to create and work on collaborative projects. You will be well-prepared to thrive in the dynamic world of music and beyond.

Course Contact

Mrs Lauren Keene
Head of Performing Arts

Course Content

Mandatory Units:
Unit 1 - Music Theory and Harmony
Unit 2 - Professional Practice in the Music Industry (External Unit- 70 marks)
Unit 3 - Ensemble Music Performance (External Unit- 80 marks)

Optional Units:
Unit 4 - Composing Music
Unit 6 - Solo Performance

Mandatory Content: 83%
External assessment: 58%

Pearson BTEC level 3 National Extended Certificate in Music Performance

Where can this take you?

After studying Music at St Edward’s, you could use the transferable skills that universities and workplace value. These include: the ability to learn independently, to research actively and methodically, to give presentations and be active group members. You will also have developed the knowledge and skills required for particular degree courses, including: effective writing, analytical skills, creative development and performance skills, preparation for assessment methods used in degrees.

Student Destinations

Academy of Contemporary Music - Creative Art
Trinity Laban - Music Performance
Guildford School of Acting - Musical Theatre
Bangor University - Chemistry
Leeds College of Music - Jazz Studies

Key information

Download Entry Requirements

Student Testimonials

"The course offered a perfect blend of practical performance and theoretical knowledge, which significantly improved my confidence and skills as a musician. The practical approach of the course meant that I was always engaged, whether it was through live performances, composing original pieces, or working on production projects in the studio. The teachers were incredibly supportive and knowledgeable, providing valuable feedback and encouraging me to push my creative boundaries."

KS5 Music student