For musicians, vocalists, singer songwriters or MCs who want to develop skills in creating and performing their own music?
Entry requirements?
You must be aged 16 or over. Access to Music requires no previous qualifications, although some of our partner colleges may. You will need to have the right skills for the level you are applying for and the drive and motivation to complete the course. You will also be invited to attend an interview/audition.
What is the course about?
It’s all about how music artists grow and develop the skills needed to work successfully in today’s music industry. Whether you want to be an indie band, a solo singer/ songwriter, a metal group, a folk duo, an MC/rapper, a jazz ensemble or a pop singer, this course offers you a journey of musical discovery.
What will I do on the course?
You will create and develop your music from songwriting and rehearsal through to recording, performance and promotion.
You can create or join bands, work solo, or in partnerships and collaborations. This is where you will develop your artist identity.
You’ll get to work with other musicians and producers in fully-equipped rehearsal rooms, recording studios and venues.
You’ll improve your musicianship, songwriting and performance skills.
You will understand where your music sits in the marketplace and you will develop ideas and ways to promote it and grow a fanbase.
You will gain an understanding of how to work effectively in the music industry and will gain access to lots of opportunities through Atom Music.
Finally, some of what you do will depend on the level of the course you end up on. Level 2 courses are about gaining core music skills, while Level 3 courses prepare you for work in the industry or higher education.
How is it delivered?
You will work on projects which lead to positive, practical outcomes. Delivery is centred on music-making sessions in rehearsal rooms, studios and venues. You will also have full-group sessions covering contextual content.
What qualification will I get?
Access to Music designs its own qualifications in partnership with awarding body, Rockschool. Courses at Levels 1-3 lead to a Rockschool Diploma for Music Practitioners. Diplomas for one year courses generate 64 ten-hour credits. Diplomas for two year courses generate 128 ten-hour credits and from this you may progress to a degree-level course. You will also gain a Functional Skills qualification in English and Maths if you have not already achieved this.
Where is it delivered?
Birmingham
Blackburn
Brighton
Bristol
Hull
Lincoln
London
Manchester
Norwich
Stoke
Warrington
York
Please note that courses are subject to cancellation if there is insufficient recruitment. In such cases applicants will be offered an alternative course where possible.
Where next?
The level 2 course leads directly onto the level 3 course. After the level 3 course you can either go into the industry or carry on studying. Access to Music options include the Artist Development course and our foundation degrees.