A Level Music Technology is a practical and creative course focused on how music is recorded, produced, and manipulated using technology. It combines hands-on production work with study of professional recording and production techniques.

1. Recording

You learn how to make high-quality recordings using microphones, studio equipment, and digital audio workstations (DAWs).

You are assessed on your ability to:

• Set up and use microphones correctly

• Capture clean, well-balanced recordings

• Apply appropriate recording techniques in different situations

This is coursework and is externally assessed.

2. Technology-Based Composition and Production

You create music using music technology, including:

• Producing tracks using DAWs

• Using MIDI, sampling, synthesis, and audio manipulation

• Arranging, mixing, and editing music in different styles

You usually submit:

• One or more technology-based compositions or productions

• One to a set brief and/or one free composition (depending on exam board)

This is coursework.

3. Listening and Analysing (Production and Professional Practice)

You study how professional music is made, focusing on:

• Recording techniques

• Effects and processing (EQ, reverb, compression, etc.)

• Mixing and mastering

• Industry practices and production styles

In the exam, you:

• Analyse unfamiliar audio extracts

• Answer questions about production techniques

• Explain how sounds and effects are created and used

Final Assessment Structure

Recording and production work are assessed through coursework.

Listening and analysing is assessed through a written exam with audio examples.