Music Technology

Course Summaries Music Technology: Edexcel 9MT0

The A level in Music Technology is a product-based course, designed to equip participants with the skills to record, sequence, and produce music. Useful for those considering a further education courses in music, media, film production, or computer science, as well as anyone embarking on a career as a professional musician. The course covers the full spectrum of commercial music making since the start of recorded music, including Jazz, Film Music, Rock, Pop and EDM genres.

Topics to be studied:

COMPONENT 1 Recording 20% NEA - One recording, chosen from a list of 10 artists, released in June preceding submission. Recordings will include full drum kit, guitar, bass, and vocals, captured with appropriate microphones and recording techniques, together with any additional tracks. Logbook and project files submitted for external assessment. Total of 60 marks.

COMPONENT 2 Technology based composition 20% NEA - One technology-based composition, responding to a brief; either a video clip, a selection of sample clips or a text. Synthesis, sequencing, sampling and creative processing effects should be used to create the final track. Logbook and project files submitted for external assessment. Total of 60 marks.

COMPONENT 3 Listening and analysing 25% Exam - Comprises two sections: four short response questions, based on commercial tracks released since 1950. Two extended response questions analysing production techniques, and placing them in a wider musical and production context. Written examination: 1 hour 30 minutes.

Section A: Listening and analysing (40 marks) Section B: Extended written responses (35 marks) Total of 75 marks.

COMPONENT 4 Producing and analysing 35% Exam/practical - Comprises two sections: A and B and all questions are compulsory. Pupils will manipulate and mix audio and MIDI materials (provided) to form a completed track, and submit a stereo master file. One extended response question critiquing the use of technology in a practical environment.

Section A: Producing and analysing (85 marks) responses and practical tasks Section B: Extended written response (20 marks) Total of 105 marks.