Learning to study music not only opens up the opportunity to master your craft, but also allows students to connect with others in the field and opens doors to different and exciting career paths in the arts.
Check out our blog on what to look for when choosing the right music course for you.
What should I look for when choosing a music course?
When choosing the perfect music course, there are some important factors to think about. Here are five things to consider:
1) Course Content
Make sure the course offers the subjects and specialisations that align with your musical interests and career goals. Look for a balance between practical training and academic study, it should provide a well-rounded education.
2) Quality and Reputation
Research who will teach the course and if they have a reputation in their field. Check if the course hosts any guest lecturers, masterclasses, or workshops as these are great opportunities to network.
3) Performance Opportunities
Look for courses which provide opportunities for live performance, whether through ensembles, choirs, solo recitals, or festivals. Ensure the college has practice rooms, recording studios, and performance spaces, as well as high-quality technology and instruments.
4) Reputation and Alumni Success
Research the college’s overall reputation, particularly in the field of music and investigate the achievements of the college’s alumni. Moreover, colleges with strong links to the music industry, whether through partnerships, internships, or guest collaborations, can provide invaluable networking opportunities and pathways into professional music careers.
5) Support Services and Career Development
Look for courses which offer career development opportunities, such as career counselling, job placement assistance, and networking events. This can help you transition smoothly from education to the music industry or further studies.
How do I enrol on a music course?
Are music courses easy to get onto? Well, gaining a place can be highly competitive, but with the right preparation shouldn’t be impossible! Here are some music course tips to help you secure a spot.
Be consistent by establishing a rehearsal routine, this will give you the time to practise regularly and improve your skills. Similarly, take extra lessons, attend workshops, join school/community rehearsal groups, and perform publicly. Doing this will help to build your skillset and confidence, this will be crucial when it comes to auditioning for the course.
Create a portfolio of your recordings or compositions, these should be polished and professional pieces as they often form part of the application process. Your portfolio should showcase your best work, and you can also include any relevant experience, awards, previous education, and qualifications.
Don’t put all of your eggs into one basket, academic grades are still important and you need to ensure that all of your grades meet the entry requirements for the music course.
Attend open days and taster days to get a feel for the college. If possible, speak to current students or alumni to find out more about their experience. Make sure you are well-practised and plan in advance how you will present yourself during the interview, this could be from rehearsing mock questions to what you will wear.
Remember to seek feedback from friends and family to keep improving, and don’t forget your passion for music! This should be the driving force behind your efforts.
Studying music at Access Creative College (ACC)
ACC offers a variety of music courses, such as Music Performance, Music Production, and Artist Development. These courses are designed to help students develop the practical skills which are directly relevant to the music industry. We tend to have smaller class sizes, leading to more personalised attention from tutors and a more supportive learning environment. We also offer student support services, including tutoring and mentorship, and professional development opportunities to help students succeed both academically and in their future careers.
We place an importance on providing real-world industry experience, we have partnerships with music industry professionals and organisations, and we give students unique opportunities for internships, work placements, and networking. We also organise events, gigs, and showcases, giving students a platform to perform, produce, and promote their own work. This is invaluable for building a professional portfolio and gaining confidence and exposure to the music industry.
In an interview with The Standard, ACC alumni, Ed Sheeran, praised ACC for giving students “a safety net of trying something before you go out into the big wide world.”
Our vocational courses are geared towards equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in their chosen field. Our curriculum is often project-based, allowing students to work on real-world tasks and build a practical skill set. Our centres are kitted out with industry-standard facilities, including recording studios, rehearsal spaces, and production suites. We offer a range of courses from Level 2 courses to Level 3 extended diplomas, which are equivalent to A-Levels. Depending on your career goals, consider the level and type of qualification you want to achieve.
Don’t worry, applications are still open for September 2024!
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