• Music and Sound

    Access to Music (potentially leading to Level 6 entry in January 2026)

  • SCQF Level

    Level 5 (leading to potential Level 6 entry in January 2025)

  • Attendance/Duration

    Short full-time, August to January

  • Start Date

    Aug 2025

Overview

Discover the art of music, from performance to songwriting and beyond. With hands-on experience, you'll develop your talents, preparing you for further study and diverse music industry roles. Join us to turn your love for music into a thriving career.

Entry Requirements

To apply for this course, you'll need:

  • a genuine passion for music
  • minimum of 2 National 4 level qualifications or their equivalents, with Music included
  • proficiency in playing at least one musical instrument or singing at a minimum National 4 level
  • an audition and interview with us

If you dont have formal qualifications but have life experience, then we'll also consider you for a place, so please do apply.

Course Content

During this dynamic course, you'll explore various aspects of the music industry.

Here's a glimpse of what you may learn:

  • your musical performance: hone your instrumental or vocal skills, both as a solo artist and part of a band
  • songwriting: learn the art of crafting songs and understanding how lyrics and melody combine to create captivating music. Develop your own songwriting skills
  • musical notation: master the fundamentals of notation, including staff and musical notation symbols, harmony, and basic chord function
  • sound engineering and production: learn to use multi-track recording equipment for audio recording and mixing
  • MIDI sequencing: dive into the world of MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) sequencers, where you'll create, edit, and mix music digitally
  • music business know-how: gain insights into the UK music industry, including key organisations and career opportunities, as well as promotion

As part of this course, you'll have the exciting opportunity to perform at live gigs in the college theatre, as well as at local pubs and clubs in Ayrshire.

Careers and Further Study

After you successfully complete this course, you may have the opportunity to:

  • progress to the Access to HNC Music level 6 starting in January
  • explore your future career options in the dynamic music industry. With the right qualifications and dedication, the music industry offers a wide array of career possibilities, including roles like Professional Musician, Function Band Musician, Music Teacher, Instrumental Tutor, Community Artist, Music Producer, Event Organiser, Music Remixer, DJ, Sound Designer, Dubbing Mixer, Sound Editor, Electronic Music Producer, Guitar Technician, Drum Technician, Performer, Songwriter, and Arranger

Ready to turn your musical passion into a promising career? Apply now and take the first step towards making your mark in the world of music.

Skills

Music playing skills, music software skills, composition, music theory

Employer and Industry Links

Ayrshire College has developed exceptional working relationships with key industry partners, fostering a dynamic learning environment for its students. Collaborating with BBC Scotland, students gain invaluable real-world insights, enhancing their media and broadcasting skills. The partnership with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland offers opportunities for aspiring performers and artists to connect with renowned professionals. Centrestage provides a platform for students to engage in community arts, while industry leaders like AVID and Sonnox offer specialised software and technical training. These partnerships enrich the college's curriculum, offering students practical experience, industry exposure, and the tools to succeed in their chosen fields.

Articulation Routes

Access HNC Music Level 6

Access HNC Sound Production Level 6

Production Arts Level 7

Places available

Campus

Ayr

Start Date

Aug 2025

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