Music Performance

Are you passionate about performing, creating, and understanding music? This dynamic course is designed for students who want to develop their musical skills while gaining a deep understanding of the music industry and the theory behind the art. All whilst working with a team of top, conservatoire trained specialist musicians with decades of Industry and touring experience. 

Across two years, you will explore four key areas:

• Session Styles (Year 1, Internal Unit): Develop versatility by studying a wide range of genres and performance techniques, learning how to adapt to different musical contexts.
• Music Industry (Year 1, External Unit): Gain insight into how the music business operates, from careers and roles to marketing and promotion, preparing you for real-world opportunities.
• Music Theory in Practice (Year 2, Internal Unit): Understand how music works through practical application of theory in composition and performance.
• Ensemble Skills (Year 2, External Unit): Learn how to collaborate effectively in bands and ensembles, creating a completely unique set focused on communication, creativity, and live performance skills.

Throughout the course, you’ll study music from across six decades and multiple genres, developing artistry, creativity, and innovation. You’ll write and perform your own music, perform regular full-scale live gigs in our dedicated theatre, showcasing your skills to a ticketed audience.

This qualification combines practical experience with academic knowledge, offering progression to higher education or careers in the music industry. It’s perfect for aspiring performers, session musicians, and creative professionals who want to turn their passion into a profession.

Performance and Technical Skills for live and studio settings.
Professionalism and Work Ethic, including time management and reliability.
Industry Knowledge to navigate careers, contracts, and marketing.
Collaboration and Communication Skills essential for working in ensembles and creative teams.
Portfolio Development to showcase your work to employers or universities.
Employability to learn industry standards and how to gain opportunities and employment after college 

Coursework and Exams

Higher Education:
Students can progress to university-level study in areas such as Music Performance, Music Production, Music Technology, Songwriting and arrangement. Many learners go on to degrees in music or combined creative subjects. ASFC Music University Links: RNCM, Leeds Arts University, Leeds Conservatoire and many more. Trips and visits to these centres take place throughout the course. 

Employment in the Creative Sector:
The course prepares students for roles such as session musician, live performer, songwriter, music tutor, or band member. The emphasis on professionalism and industry knowledge also supports careers in events management, music marketing, and artist development.

Apprenticeships and Industry Training:
Learners can enter apprenticeships in music-related fields, such as sound engineering, live events production, or music business roles.

Portfolio Careers:
With the skills gained in performance, theory, and industry practice, students are equipped to build a freelance or portfolio career, combining live performance with teaching, composing, or producing.

1-2-1 Peripatetic tutoring offered from RNCM Alumni on Drums, Bass, Guitar, Piano, Vocals, Saxophone and Music Theory

Links with Gorilla Manchester (Live music Venue) offering regular free gig tickets to ASFC Music students

Industry contacts with once in a lifetime opportunities, seeing behind the scenes at arena venues and meeting global superstars

Talks from senior figures within Music Industry (SONY, PRS, BMI)

Workshops and trips to Universities 

Performing Arts Trip to New York