Level 3 Music Performance & Business

Our Level 3 Music Performance and Business course offers a comprehensive introduction to the music industry. Develop professional skills in performance, musicianship, theory, songwriting, and composition while refining your artistic image. Gain hands-on experience through industry events, auditions, and studio recordings. Learn how the music business operates and build the tools needed to launch your career, secure freelance work, or start your own business.

Entry Requirements

5 GCSEs at Grade 4-9 including English & maths.
Demonstrable intermediate music knowledge & skills.
Good school references and school report.
You will also need to successfully complete your interview and audition.

What happens if I don't have a Grade 4 or above in GCSE English and/or maths?

If you do not achieve a Grade 4 or above in GCSE English and/or maths, it is mandatory that you continue working towards these qualifications as part of your course. At SoundSkool, this means you’ll attend college on an additional day each week to complete your English and/or maths studies alongside your music qualification.

We’ll support you every step of the way to help you achieve these essential qualifications and progress with confidence.

Course Length

One Year, Full Time (Subsidiary Diploma)

Two Years, Full Time (Extended Diploma)

Qualification

RSL Level 3 Subsidiary/Extended Diploma in the Creative Music Industry (Performance)

Application Process

HOW TO APPLY:

STAGE TWO: We’ll request your latest school report from your parent or guardian and also get a reference from your school. Once we’ve received a good review of your attendance, punctuality, behaviour, and work ethic, we’ll invite you to the next stage—an audition and interview at the college. This is your opportunity to show us your passion for music and get a feel for what it’s like to be part of the SoundSkool community

Level 3 Course Overview

Take your music career to the next level with our Level 3 Music Performance & Business course—created for aspiring musicians and artists who are ready to refine their craft and step confidently into the music industry.

This in-depth course explores advanced music performance, music business, musicianship, composition, music theory, improvisation, songwriting, and recording techniques. You’ll build your professional performance skills by developing confidence on stage, mastering audition techniques, and preparing for live shows. Alongside this, you’ll also work on shaping your unique artist identity.

You’ll also gain real knowledge of the music industry, with sessions covering contracts, copyright, music marketing, social media promotion, and how to independently release your own music like a pro.

Learn and create using state-of-the-art, industry-standard equipment, with access to expert 1:1 and group tuition in vocals, keyboard, and guitar. You’ll work on both individual and collaborative projects, taking part in practical and theoretical assignments that deepen your understanding and help you grow as both an artist and a professional.

Throughout the course, you’ll have opportunities to showcase your work at regular SoundSkool events, connect with industry professionals through masterclasses, seminars and workshops, and gain hands-on experience through our valuable industry work experience programme.

Whether you see yourself on stage as a solo artist or as a session musician, this course gives you the tools, knowledge and connections to build a successful future in the music industry.

Level 3 Course Modules

Level 3 Music Performance & Business Year 1 Subsidiary Diploma:

Performing as a Featured Musician

Music in Context

Marketing Music

Composing Lyrics

Music Research Project

Performing Music with Technology

Creating a Social Media (Content) Strategy

Working in the Music Industry

Level 3 Music Performance & Business Year 2 Extended Diploma:

Radio Podcast Production

Improvising Music

Digital Distribution

Performing Music Live

Writing about Music

Performing Music with Technology

Listening to Music

Planning for a Career in the Music Industry

Progression

Progression is at the heart of everything we do at SoundSkool—whether that means progressing on to university, higher education, an internship, freelance work, building an entrepreneurial career, or stepping straight into the music industry.

All SoundSkool students take part in weekly tutorial and progression sessions designed to help you plan your next steps with confidence. You’ll also receive dedicated support with university applications, including help with UCAS, writing personal statements, and exploring all your options for what comes next.

We know that your next destination is a key part of your journey, and we have the tools, guidance and industry expertise to support you every step of the way.

As part of your course, you’ll also take part in employability projects delivered in partnership with our network of industry, education, and community partners, giving you the experience and connections to prepare for your future in music—wherever it takes you.