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Professional Musicianship (Foundation Degree)
The Foundation Degree (FdMus) in Professional Musicianship is a two-year course which is taught by BIMM Bristol (Bristol Institute of Modern Music), one of our partners in education.
For more information about this course please visit the School of Music and Performing Arts website.
The course aims to equip performing musicians with the key practical, theoretical and business skills required for a long-term career in the music industry. The BIMM Foundation Degree integrates vocational performance-based skills in music performance with academic study and work-based learning.
Course Structure and Content
The course is composed of 12 modules which provide a strong balance of instrumental, practical and academic study. You will develop professional-level performance skills in a wide variety of styles for your chosen instrument: drums, guitar, bass or vocals. The course is highly vocational and you will have the opportunity to undertake work experience in the music industry. You will also gain a thorough understanding of the career paths available within the music industry.
Modules
Year 1:
- Technical Instrumental Development;
- Musical Styles and Repertoire;
- Music Business and Personal Management;
- Study Skills;
- Music Theory and Arrangement;
- Aural and Notation Skills;
- Pre-Production Skills;
- Live Performance Workshop.
Year 2:
- Critical Insights into 20th Century Music;
- Applied Technical Development;
- Session Skills;
- Engaging with Industry;
- Creative Composition and Arrangement;
- Transcription and Critical Listening Skills;
- Live Music Project.
Teaching Methods and Resources
In addition to practical and academic lessons, course delivery is supported by BIMM's comprehensive tutorial system that enables every student to benefit from widespread access to music industry professionals for expert help and advice. There are many extra-curricular activities including rehearsing, recording and performing in public, and visits from high level professional musicians and other music industry personnel.
BIMM Foundation Degree students also have access to a range of student services at Bath Spa University's Newton Park campus, including Student Union membership, library provision, careers advice, student support and electronic resources including a web-based Virtual Learning Environment.
Success in all modules will lead to the award of a Foundation Degree (FdA). Further study options will be available for students to apply to progress to Year 3 of an associated BA (Hons) course.
Assessment Methods
Throughout the course you will be assessed through a wide range of methods, including live performance, audio/web-based submission, website, written work and seminar presentation. There are no formal examinations.
Entry Requirements
160-200 UCAS Tariff points (eg BC; CD + AS c; BTEC MM).
Applicants are also required to have performing ability equivalent to Trinity Grade 6-8, together with Grade 5 or equivalent level music theory.
Applications are welcomed from mature students with relevant professional experience and an aptitude/willingness to undertake a course of study at HE level.
Applicants will be interviewed and auditioned at BIMM in Bristol.