Candidates also study a diverse range of subjects including mixing, sound, live sound, DJing, MCing, sound effects, audio editing and employment opportunities. Learners also produce final recordings using music technology skills through practical work to develop creative skills.
Alasdair Downes, director of business development at NCFE, commented: "NCFE has developed these qualifications to help provide learners access to a range of opportunities within the music industry. NCFE has consulted industry specialists to ensure that the Music Technology qualifications are developed to the highest standards and include subjects and opportunities relevant to the music business."
The qualifications were developed with several partner organisations including Confetti, a specialist provider in Music and Video Technologies. Darren Bourne, director of education at Confetti, was fundamental in the development of the qualifications. He commented: "Confetti chose to support NCFE in the development of these qualifications as it is an approachable, forward thinking awarding body. NCFE is interested in issues of flexibility and delivery as well as providing solid qualifications at a tested level. There are not many comparable qualifications at a similar level in a similar subject area."
"We use the NCFE Music Technology qualifications at Confetti, both post and pre-16. They are flexible qualifications and we use them as a solid practical stepping stone, particularly for students who are lacking practical experience in the subject. The qualifications offer flexibility and up-to-date assessment criteria at the right level," he added.
The Music Technology qualifications link to the vision set out in the Music Manifesto produced by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) and the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
(Lee Baldock)
