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Vocational

Music (BTEC)

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About this course

This course is ideal for students who are passionate about music and want to develop their performance skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the music industry. It is suited to learners who enjoy playing an instrument, singing or creating music and want a practical, performance-focused qualification.


Students will develop their confidence as performers through solo and ensemble work, with opportunities to perform in real-world venues such as Cafe Indie. These experiences allow learners to gain valuable industry insight and develop the professional behaviours expected within the music sector.


The course focuses on developing emerging musicians by improving performance ability, creativity and understanding of how the industry operates. Students will have opportunities to write their own music, organise performances, collaborate with other musicians and explore different career pathways within music.


Specialist tuition is available through partnerships with the North Lincolnshire Music Service, supporting students across a range of instruments, piano and voice. Students can also take part in enrichment activities including Jazz Rock Band, Orchestra, Wind Band, Mixed Voice Choir and further music grade development.


Whether students aim to pursue a career in the music industry or simply want to develop their musical skills further, this course provides an exciting and supportive environment for growth.

Three students standing infront of a standing microphone during a Music BTEC recording session at John Leggott College, Scunthorpe

What will you learn?

This course develops practical music skills while exploring performance, composition, professional practice and the wider music industry. Students will gain experience as musicians while developing the confidence and knowledge needed for future progression.


Topics covered include:

  • Ensemble Performance

    • Developing skills as part of a musical group

    • Rehearsing and performing collaboratively

    • Understanding the roles and responsibilities of musicians within an ensemble

    • Preparing performances for live audiences

  • Solo Performance

    • Developing individual performance skills

    • Building confidence as a solo musician or vocalist

    • Preparing and presenting a personal performance programme

    • Improving technical ability and musical expression

  • Music Notation and Composition

    • Developing understanding of musical structures and techniques

    • Creating original compositions

    • Exploring arrangement and songwriting processes

    • Using musical notation and composition methods

  • Professional Behaviours in the Music Industry

    • Understanding roles and opportunities within the music industry

    • Developing professional attitudes and behaviours

    • Exploring event organisation and performance management

    • Learning how musicians promote themselves and their work

  • Research Skills

    • Investigating music styles, artists and industry developments

    • Analysing musical performances

    • Exploring how the music industry operates


Students will also develop experience of performing in professional-style environments, including live performances at Cafe Indie, providing valuable preparation for future careers and further study.

Who is this course aimed at?

This course is aimed at students who enjoy playing an instrument or singing and want to develop their performance skills in a practical and supportive environment. It is suitable for learners who may not have had the opportunity to study music previously but have a strong interest in developing as musicians.


Students who enjoy performing, creating music and working collaboratively will benefit from this course. Learners should be motivated to practise, perform and develop their confidence through practical experiences.


The course is ideal for students who want to explore careers within the music industry, including performance, production, events, arts administration and creative roles. Students will gain experience of professional expectations and develop the skills needed to work effectively within a creative environment.


The qualification provides a strong foundation for progression into higher education, specialist music training, apprenticeships or employment within the music sector.

  • Students should have achieved GCSE Maths and English at Grade 4 or above, with an average GCSE points score of 4.2 or above. Students should have the ability to play an instrument or sing confidently, although formal music grades are not required. This course is best suited to students with a strong passion for music, performance and developing practical skills within the music industry.

  • Assessment takes place through a combination of internally and externally assessed units. Students are assessed internally in Performance, Composition and Research Skills, while Professional Behaviours and Ensemble Performance are externally assessed. Students demonstrate their skills through practical performances, creative projects, research activities and industry-focused tasks.

  • Students will develop skills in:


    Musical and Creative Skills

    • Solo and ensemble performance

    • Composition and songwriting

    • Musical interpretation

    • Analysing and evaluating performances

    • Developing creative ideas

    Professional Skills

    • Understanding music industry practices

    • Organisation and event planning

    • Attention to detail

    • Decision-making

    • Independence and self-management

    Communication and Teamwork Skills

    • Collaboration with musicians

    • Effective communication

    • Teamwork within ensembles

    • Working with creative professionals

    Personal Development Skills

    • Confidence

    • Resilience

    • Problem-solving

    • Creative thinking

    • Public performance skills

Progression routes

Possible progression routes include careers in:


  • Music Performance

  • Music Production

  • Arts Administration

  • Music Education

  • Music Technology

  • Creative Industries

  • Live Events and Stage Management

Career opportunities may include:

  • Teacher

  • Music Journalist

  • Music Technician

  • Singer

  • Music Content Designer

  • Music Producer

  • Music Therapist

  • Stage Manager

  • Arts Administrator

Degree Routes

Students may progress to higher education courses in areas such as:

  • Music Performance

  • Music Production

  • Music Technology

  • Performing Arts

  • Arts Management


This course also supports progression into apprenticeships, specialist training and employment within the music industry by providing students with practical experience, professional knowledge and transferable creative skills.

Related Courses

Looking for something that works well with this course? Here are some related courses to consider.

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