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Music

MUSIC COURSES FOR 16-19 YEAR OLDS

Whether you choose a music production or performance course, you’ll get to hone your talents and practise your skills in one of our three recording studios. You don’t need to be an experienced musician – we offer courses from Level 1, right up to degree level.

Revenue generated by the UK’s live music is growing. It’s estimated to contribute £4bn a year to the economy with jobs increasing 19% each year. Music is an exciting and varied subject that lets you explore your passion and creativity. There are more jobs available in the music industry than you might think, and a qualification in music could lead to a variety of well-paid careers including music performance, music production and teaching.

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Level 1

Music Performance & Production, UAL Diploma

Level 2

Music Performance and Production, UAL Diploma

Level 3

Music Performance and Production, UAL Diploma / Extended Diploma

What do you want to be?

Weston College offer a wide range of creative qualifications and here’s a taster of the types of careers they can lead onto:

Musician

Arts Officer, Producer or Director

Photographer, Audio-visual or Broadcasting Equipment Operator

TV, Video or Audio Engineer

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Apprenticeships
T-Levels

Level 1

Music Performance & Production, UAL Diploma

Duration: 1 Year

Start Date: Sep 2025

Location: LOXTON CAMPUS

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The Level 1 Diploma in Music, Performing and Production Arts has been designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills and understanding necessary to access and progress to further study and training in a range of music performance and production disciplines. Progression routes include ‘Tech Level’ and ‘Applied General’ qualific...

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Level 2

Music Performance and Production, UAL Diploma

Duration: 1 Year

Start Date: Sep 2025

Location: LOXTON CAMPUS

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This exciting course has been developed to provide you with an understanding of music performance and production as a collaborative process. You will learn about the music industry, performing and recording, using professional music software, composition, studio skills and music production. You will have access to professional-grade digital an...

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Level 3

Music Performance and Production, UAL Diploma / Extended Diploma

Duration: 2 Years

Start Date: Sep 2025

Location: LOXTON CAMPUS

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This exciting course has been developed to provide you with in-depth knowledge of the topics required for a successful career in the music industry. You will learn about the music industry, performing and recording, using professional music software, composition, critique, and music production. You will develop practical skills through hands-o...

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Your Next Step

You can progress onto Degrees and Higher Apprenticeships with UCW...

Level 6Acting and Performance Making, BA (Hons) Level 6Dance for Commercial Performance, BA (Hons) Level 6 Hair, Make-up and Prosthetics for Production, BA (Hons) Level 6 Musical Theatre, BA (Hons) Level 6 Professional Music Performance and Production, BA (Hons)

We've bundled the best education in the area with career boosted benefits - and are leveraging our contacts as one of the largest Colleges in the country to give you the best possible chance of success.

As a musician, your industry career path is only limited by your ambitions.

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Campus

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Loxton Campus

Facilities

Industry Standard Equipment

Future

Careers

Occupations related to Music

Musician

Musicians write, arrange, orchestrate, conduct and perform musical compositions.

Average annual earnings: £19,250
Employment in region: 431 positions

Arts Officer, Producer or Director

Arts officers, producers and directors assume creative, financial and organisational responsibilities in the production and direction of television and radio programmes, films, stage presentations, content for other media, and the promotion and exhibition of other creative activities.

Average annual earnings: £23,588
Employment in region: 2,328 positions

Photographer, Audio-visual or Broadcasting Equipment Operator

Workers in this unit group operate and assist with still, cine and television cameras and operate other equipment to record, manipulate and project sound and vision for entertainment, cultural, commercial and industrial purposes.

Average annual earnings: £19,787
Employment in region: 988 positions

Meet our Trailblazers

Kezia

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Music Performance and Production

"I loved my time here and have really developed my performance as well as music and technical knowledge to help my future career."

Read my story

Why choose Weston?

Hear what our students have to say

LATEST NEWS

17 Apr 2025

Group picture at Musicians Hall of Fame podium

This month, our <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank">Music and Production</a> students had the incredible opportunity to take a 12-day trip to Nashville due to the generous funding from the Turing Scheme. The trip offered students the chance to explore the city whilst giving them a better understanding of the music industry, further developing their personal and professional growth.  The Turing Scheme is an amazing initiative that provides financial support for education providers, enabling students to take part in international study and work placements. This support opens the door to global learning experiences that not only enrich education but also provide cultural awareness and career growth. For many of the students on this trip, it was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, with some having never left the UK before, let alone travelled across the world. The scheme made the adventure extremely accessible, with some students even attending completely free of charge.  Despite an unexpected delay caused by airport closures that pushed their departure back three days, and weather warnings during their stay, the students remained upbeat and resilient. They took everything in stride, embracing every moment with positivity and maturity.  After arriving in Nashville, the group’s itinerary was jam-packed! They visited world-renowned music landmarks such as the Johnny Cash Museum, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum where they got to immerse themselves in the history and evolution of different genres. However, the most beneficial visits included Full Circle Music and WeiRock Entertainment as they gave the students valuable industry and studio experience, giving them the chance to network and build connections with Music industry professionals.<drupal-entity alt=""Group of students sat smiling on a stage"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c9bd119f-7529-41a8-9729-6524c4ae7b05" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity> They also got the chance to attend tours of iconic locations such as the old and new Grand Ole Opry, Musicians Hall of Fame, various recording studios, and the Ryman Auditorium which allowed students to see first-hand the spaces where music history was made. This gave them a behind-the-scenes look into their future careers with the chance to ask questions.  <drupal-entity alt=""Students watching a live performance in the Ole Red"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="214acb0b-54a9-4920-81ca-e6d60c492aa4" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity> Workshops also played a vital role in the educational value of the trip. Students took part in a marketing workshop led by Rick Barker, best known for managing Taylor Swift in her early career, and a vocal training session with Brett Manning, an industry-renowned coach. Peer songwriting sessions encouraged collaboration, with students sharing their work and receiving feedback in a supportive environment. Some even performed on a public piano in one of the museums, capturing the attention of visitors with their music. The final workshop offered a chance to present their songs to a panel of professionals, giving them an invaluable taste of real industry feedback.  On top of this, the trip also offered a range of cultural experiences. Students enjoyed street performances, a fantastic evening show at the Grand Ole Opry, visits to Madame Tussauds, and free time exploring the famous Broadway strip. They stopped at the world-renowned Carter Vintage Guitars which gave them a hands-on look at top-tier instruments, and they also enjoyed lots of delicious food during their trip which was definitely a highlight! This trip made a lasting impact, allowing students to gain perspective on what a career in music really looks like. By meeting professionals, exploring legendary venues, and participating in practical workshops, they developed a clearer understanding of the dedication, creativity, and perseverance required to thrive in the industry. It also boosted their independence and confidence, providing them with essential life skills of navigating life in a city.  None of this would have been possible without the dedication and support of staff members Oz Cahill, Tom Manning, and Laura Trace, who went above and beyond to ensure the trip was well-organised, safe, and unforgettable. Thanks to their efforts and the incredible funding from the Turing Scheme, this Nashville trip was an unforgettable opportunity that has helped shape our future <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank">Music</a> industry professionals.  This curriculum trip forms part of the <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank">Music</a> Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.  If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&utm_medium=main-…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&utm_medium=main-…; target="_blank">here</a>. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Music Students Take an Unforgettable Trip to Nashville

20 Mar 2025

Guthrie Kennard performing on stage to the Music students

Last month, Guthrie Kennard, an American singer-songwriter from Texas, visited our <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank">Music Performance and Production</a> learners, offering invaluable insight into the world of songwriting and performance. With over 60 years of experience in Old Blues and Southern country music, Guthrie brought not only his talent but also his wisdom, sharing stories from a lifetime dedicated to music. Guthrie has played bass for six decades and performed alongside legendary musicians like Larry Graham, Buddy Miles, Rocky Hill, and Ray Wylie Hubbard. From playing gigs in small intimate settings to massive crowds of 50,000 people during the peak of the blues movement, Guthrie had many amazing stories to share with our learners about his journey. His passion for music has never faltered, “I have more stories than I do money,” he admitted, and even at 74, he continues to play because it brings him joy and fulfilment. During his visit, Guthrie shared insights into the songwriting process. He emphasised the importance of originality in lyrics, advising students to avoid repetition and make every line unique. His songwriting process is also largely organic—he starts with chords and a melody, often relying on drum patterns to guide the rhythm.  While he doesn’t always plan albums in advance, he claims that he has a clear sense of the sound he wants to achieve. “I usually have a feeling of what an album will sound like, and I will write a song and decide that I need to keep it in that genre,” he explained. Guthrie finds inspiration for his songs originates from the world around him. “I listen to stories, so if I hear a line that inspires me, I will use it as a lyric,” he shared. However, he also admitted to struggling with writer’s block, encouraging the students to keep writing, whether it’s serious songs or silly and fun, every bit of creativity is progress. The students were captivated when Guthrie performed in our Michael Eavis music Suite at Loxton Campus. Many of our learners aspire for a lifetime career in music in the future, giving them a lot of encouragement and insight into their chosen industry.  Guthrie acknowledges that his age has slowed him down a bit and discussed the challenges he has faced over time, but his love for music has always outweighed the negatives and he doesn’t want to stop playing. “I love doing it, and it keeps me going. It’s something I’ve done since I was a kid. Even though it’s been hard, it’s also kept me alive.” During his visit, Guthrie praised Weston College’s facilities and the warmth of the students and staff, admitting that he was actually a bit nervous to be there. Guthrie’s insights and experiences provided the students with an honest, unfiltered look at the realities of being a musician. From handling criticism to navigating the financial struggles of the industry, he offered an abundance of knowledge that will undoubtedly help shape the future generation of artists.  We’d like to say a huge thank you to Guthrie Kennard for taking the time to visit us all the way from Texas and share his amazing journey and wisdom with our students. <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank">If you’re interested in applying to one of our Music and Production courses, click here.</a>

Live Performance and Q&A from Guthrie Kennard, a Musician from Texas

16 Dec 2024

Students from various subjects, including <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt…; target="_blank">Health and Social Care</a>, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; target="_blank">Sport and Fitness</a>, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…; target="_blank">Art and Design</a>, and <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank">Music</a>, came together to host a memorable Christmas Fair this holiday season, raising funds for Weston Hospice Care. With festive games, delicious treats, and heart-warming activities, the event brought together the public, students, and staff for a day filled with joy, fun, and community spirit. This event was publicised to local charities, hospices and care homes to bring them together this Christmas and get them in the festive spirit. All our games and activities were made to be accessible and inclusive so some of our guests gave our Christmas games a go and won a handful of chocolates. The learners played a significant role in making the Christmas fair a success. The day featured free festive games for both the staff and the visitors, including throwing 'snowballs’ at reindeer cups, magnetic darts, Christmas bingo, and hoop toss onto reindeer antlers. Guests also enjoyed arts and crafts sessions with pipe cleaners, pompoms, wreath kits, and colouring activities, alongside unique handmade ornaments created by Art and Design learners. <drupal-entity alt=""Resident throwing a snowball at reindeer cups"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16e3fc70-d10c-4d15-9be7-2f95dfa60808" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity> The event offered something for everyone: a lively ‘Strictly Just Dance’ session judged by students, yoga, accessible walking football, and running football. The tombola and raffle raised money with its abundance of prizes, while the Craft Café served tea, coffee, cakes, and savoury bites. Guests could also get tinselled hair and enjoy live performances by Music students, set to a soundtrack of classic Christmas tunes. <drupal-entity alt=""3 learners with raffle prizes selling raffle tickets"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c9db52e2-c1ba-4adc-832d-f785af5b0197" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity> <drupal-entity alt=""Students and residents playing Christmas Bingo"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1f948fbf-a6a6-4ee0-a581-9b9c99ecc027" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity> <drupal-entity alt=""Music learner singing and playing the guitar to an audience"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17110a45-e6fa-4566-abdf-b6dc8c47fa3c" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity> The Christmas Fair was dedicated to raising funds for Weston Hospice Care, with proceeds from raffles, the tombola, handmade ornaments, and donations supporting the hospice’s vital work. Residents and staff from Weston Hospice Care, Acer House, Orchard House, and University Hospitals Bristol and Weston attended, adding to the festive atmosphere. Special guests included the Mayor of Weston-Super-Mare and, of course, Santa Claus himself. One of our guests, Laura, said, “it was a very enjoyable morning. My favourite part of the day was the young man playing the guitar.” The entire event was made even more festive as students and staff wore Christmas jumpers and accessories, creating a cheerful and welcoming environment. Learners enthusiastically led activities and engaged with visitors, ensuring smiles and laughter filled the day. It was a celebration of togetherness and a wonderful way to support a meaningful cause during the holiday season. <drupal-entity alt=""Learners with Christmas photo props"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31565b3d-8e40-4da6-b6b8-38c3b171328b" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity> Thank you to everyone who attended our Christmas Fair and celebrated the festive season with us, and thank you to our learners for stepping up and helping with the event. If you are interested in applying to one of our <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt…; target="_blank">Health and Social Care</a>, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; target="_blank">Sport and Fitness</a>, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…; target="_blank">Art and Design</a>, or <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank">Music</a> courses next September, click here.