The Level 2 course is a one year course and is designed for students to develop their confidence and skills in preparation for the Level 3 course. This year gives the students hands on experience in some of the practical and theoretical aspects of the music industry and also gives students the opportunity to improve in their instrument to ensure they are at Level 3 standard by the end of the course. It also gives students a chance to obtain their Level 2 qualifications in English and Maths as these are part of the entry requirements for Level 3.
You will work in groups and individually to rehearse music in preparation for gigs and recording. The music you perform will be decided in agreement with the tutor and you will be encouraged to perform different genres, often through cover versions. Gigs take place each term in various college venues, while rehearsal and recording takes place in the music area of the Creative Studios building.
In addition to the performance aspects of the course, research projects are focused on developing your understanding of the context of various genres of music. This will prepare you for the challenges of making a living in the music industry. These projects are assessed through written assignments and presentations. We also encourage video evidence of rehearsals and evaluation.
CWA has some of the best equipped recording studios in the region and there are plenty of opportunities for you to get hands-on experience in our two control rooms, one of which features a state-of-the-art digital mixing desk.
All of the rehearsal rooms and recording studios are equipped with a drum kit, guitar amplifiers and PA system. We also have a piano, organ and other electronic keyboards and various percussion instruments. You are encouraged to bring your own instruments wherever it is practical.
You will also have the chance to become familiar with music sequencing in our classroom, which features computers equipped with MIDI keyboards and Cubase sequencing software. Here you will also be encouraged to experiment with techniques for music composition.
Our highest profile success in recent years is the band Deaf Havana, whose original members Chris Pennells and Tom Ogden studied music at the college.
