Entry requirements
UCAS Tariff
We would normally expect applicants to have achieved 80 UCAS Tariff Points at entry but whilst qualifications are important, our offers are not solely based on academic results and we may make offers based on other evidence of talent and suitability for the course. Portfolio submission (where applicable) and successful interview or audition are required.
You may also need to…
Attend an interview
Perform an audition
About this course
Popular Music at HCA is a vocational course designed for performers, songwriters and producers who wish to graduate with all the creative skills, knowledge and experience needed to have a successful career in the music industry. From the mainstream to the underground, this degree embraces music in its many forms – from rock, pop, folk, urban, jazz, sound design and to the experimental.
Study on an industry-focused program in an inspiring art school environment. We support innovative and curious students who are willing to engage with ideas that will enhance their own creative vision and critical thinking.
With an emphasis on the production of original work and digital content creation, you will learn how to collaborate with your fellow students in performance, songwriting and production, whilst acquiring a detailed knowledge and understanding of all aspects of the creative music industries. At HCA the emphasis is on supporting you to help find and develop your own distinctive voice and musical identity. We prepare you for a long-term career in the music industry by enabling you to be a versatile, resilient portfolio musician with a host of transferable skills.
At HCA you will learn through being involved in stimulating live briefs relevant to current 21st century music industry practices. The course welcomes diversity, collaboration and experimentation.
**Industry Links**
Herefordshire has a vibrant community of musicians, producers, recording studios, venues, music festivals and community music outlets that contribute to an exciting live scene. The course will enable you to connect with the rich music ecology within the city and the wider region.
**After this Course**
This dynamic, innovative, industry-facing course is designed for students whose ambition it is to work in the music industry. Throughout your journey at Hereford College of Arts you will have the opportunity to develop innovative ways of achieving a portfolio of skills that are relevant to employment opportunities within music and the allied creative industries. Career destinations of BA Popular Music might include performing, producing, songwriting, and the wider creative industries, such as digital marketing, live event management and publishing.
**Highlights**
1. You will be taught by a strong team of industry-based lecturers combined with regular masterclasses from professionals that are designed to educate, stimulate, and motivate.
2. Access to high quality rehearsal rooms, acoustically designed and fully equipped with the best gear. Whether it be high-end digital or retro analogue, you will be able to produce and create a diverse range of professional sound recordings.
3. Develop an expertise in a business relevant to your musical interest and discover opportunities for industry based internships and graduate placements.
4. Small class sizes provide highly personalised levels of supervision and support. This will enable you to develop your own specialist practice you need for working within this dynamic sector.
5. Opportunities to collaborate with other creatives in a dynamic art school environment.
Modules
Year 1 (Level 4) Modules; Popular Music Histories (20 credits), Music Promotion (20 credits), Principal Study 1 (20 credits), Performance Ensemble (20 credits), Music Theory (20 credits), Live and Recorded Audio (20 credits), Year 2 (Level 5) Modules: Popular Music Studies (20 credits), Management of Music and Events (20 credits), Principal Study 2 (20 credits), Professional Practice 1 (20 credits), Professional Practice 2 (20 credits), Music in Practice (Experiential Learning) (20 credits), Year 3 (Level 6) Modules: Popular Music Research (20 credits), Preparing and Leading Music (20 credits), Principal Study 3 (20 credits) plus two of the following Modules: Practice in Context Three (30 credits, Negotiated Practical project (30 credits) or The Session Musician (30 credits)
Tuition fees
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Hereford College of Arts
Performing Arts and Music
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Popular music
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