'As a music artist who regularly employs session musicians, I wholeheartedly support this course as it gives a fantastic opportunity for aspiring musicians to get the training they need to work in this role.'
Jools Holland

 

Access to Music and the Royal Northern College of Music have joined forces to offer a unique new Foundation Degree in Popular Music Practice (Session Musician): the UK’s only Foundation Degree for would-be session musicians.

The course provides vocational training for high-level musicians and vocalists who intend to work as session/freelance musicians/vocalists in all areas outside of the classical music sector.

 

By doing the Popular Music Practice
(Session Musician) Foundation Degree you will:

• Study at one of the world's leading music conservatoires.
• Develop and refine your musical/vocal skills to an advanced level. You will study under one of the following disciplines: guitar, bass guitar, drum kit, keyboard or vocal.
• Enhance your instrumental/vocal technique and application through intensive weekly 1.5 hour one-on-one instrumental/vocal sessions with a top professional.
• Gain valuable experience through relevant work-based learning.
• Understand the requirements of studio and live sessioning.
• Understand how to contextualise yourself and your music in relation to today's music scene.
• Learn direct from professional players.
• Learn how to network and make contacts.
• Understand how to promote and market yourself.
• Gain a recognised and relevant qualification.
• Access progression opportunities onto the Popular Music degree course at Leeds College of Music.

 

‘Back in my younger days there was nothing like this! It was generally assumed that if you were outside of classical music you had to sort it out for yourself. I firmly believe that this stuff can be taught, and that all musicians going into the music business should receive business advice. Therefore I whole-heartedly applaud and welcome the arrival of this course.’
Snake Davis, international saxophonist

Download full details below.

If you require more information on this course either:

• call FREEPHONE 0800 281 842 or
• email info@accesstomusic.co.uk

For information on being a student at RNCM and student life please contact them via email.

We have an ATM/RNCM HE Prospectus available on request.

 

 

Find out more about our fabulous tutors.

 

 

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must be 18 years of age, or over, on September 1 in the year of entry.

All applicants will be expected to demonstrate a high level of performing ability linked to music theory. It is recommended that applicants study for ABRSM theory grade 5.

All applicants will normally be expected to possess the following minimum qualifications:

• GCE A level (A2) in one subject, or a Rockschool Level 3 Music Practitioner qualification, or a National Diploma in a relevant subject area (Music, Performing Arts etc.);

• Passes at GCSE level (grades A*-C) in four differente subjects, two of which must be English Language and Mathematics, or acceptable qualification equivalents.

Acceptable qualification equivalents:

• Two AS (A1) passes will be deemed equivalent to one A level (A2) pass;

• A pass in a high grade instrumental examination in combination with a pass in grade 5 Music Theory is equivalent in this instance to an A Level (A2) pass.

Applicants with non-standard qualifications are also encouraged to apply. The admissions panel will consider admitting those who do not possess the qualifications listed above, provided applicants are able to demonstrate appropriate ability through their audition and interview.

 

AUDITIONS/INTERVIEWS

Sessions take place at the RNCM and last about 45 minutes.

• Applicants must bring their own instrument except for drumkit. Please note, no drumkit can be provided for warm-up.
• Drum kit, PA and backline are all provided for the audition: - Yamaha Stage Custom Drum Kit (5 piece with cymbals)
  - Ashdown Bass Amp
  - Marshall Guitar Amp (with footswitch)
  - JBL PA system and Shure SM58 mics
• You will have up to 45 minutes warm-up time before the audition.
• If you intend to use backing tracks, please bring these on an MP3 player or a CD.

The audition will include:

• Introductions from tutors;

• Recital programme to last between 10-12 minutes demonstrating a variety of techniques through a varied choice of music;

• Each piece should be introduced with information about the music/composer – entire programme to last 10-12 minutes;

• Sight-reading test;

• Musicianship test (including aural tests, theoretical knowledge, technique, etc);

• Improvisation test;

• Interview on personal qualities and intentions for progression supported by portfolio of work (including CDs, DVDs, photos, press etc).

 

 

You must apply for this course through the Conservatoires Admissions Service UK: CUKAS:
CUKAS Registration & Application
You will needs to enter the following information:

• Conservatoire Code Name: RNCM
• Conservatoire Code: R57
• Course Code: 113F
• Short Form of Course: FdA/PMPSM

If you have a problem with this site you can also apply using our online application form.

 

Download full course information here (PDF 1.2MB):

Download student success stories here (PDF 3.5MB):

Download ATM wallpaper here (PDF 804KB):

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