“Compared to Music A Level there was much more of a focus on popular music as opposed to the more classical and theoretical approach of A Level which suited me well as an electric guitar player” says BTEC Music Performance student, Sebastian, who gained D*DD on his course and is off to Waterbear College of Music in Brighton to study BA (Hons) Professional Music (Songwriting).
Why did you choose your course and Kingston College?
I chose BTEC Music Performance at Kingston College because I’ve been passionate about music and playing the guitar for a long time. I had always enjoyed going to local youth jams and open mics with my friends and wanted to develop those skills and passion into something I could do professionally.
What attracted you to studying a BTEC rather than A Levels?
I liked the more practical approach to learning in BTECs especially in a creative course like Music, it really gives you a good opportunity to get experience of being in bands and writing and performing music. Also compared to Music A Level there was much more of a focus on popular music as opposed to the more classical and theoretical approach of A Level which suited me well as an electric guitar player.
What are your plans after you finish your course?
I’m starting my BA (Hons) Professional Music (Songwriting) at Waterbear College of Music in Brighton. Long term, I'm hoping to be a performing singer-songwriter in an indie band!
What skills have you developed during your time here?
I really developed my skills in using DAW software for recording music at the college, coming from not doing Music GCSE I think the tutors in the College really helped me learn how to use those industry standard tools. I also discovered my love of songwriting too, just starting with writing in bands but eventually composing and writing my own lyrics as an individual singer-songwriter.
How has your course prepared you for your next step?
I think the course has definitely built up my technical skills which I didn't previously have as someone without Music GCSE, having access to software such as Logic Pro and being taught it properly by tutors really helps deepen the understanding of the software. Also gaining the confidence and skills to perform in bands and write collaboratively has really helped me towards my career in the music industry, and I don't think I would be the musician I am today without the course.
Advice to New Students?
I'd say to go for it, it's such an amazing opportunity to develop your technical music skills but also to do really incredible performances with the bands you form and taking those bands beyond the College and out into venues around London. I think it really develops you as a musician and you learn a lot.
