CertHE Music Production & Sound Engineering draft
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-10-02 | - |
| 2024-01-08 | - |
Program Overview
Overview
If you want a solid introduction to music production and sound engineering, then this course is for you. All modules are designed by industry professionals who’ve worked with Pharrell, Lilly Allen, and The Killers. You will cover all the fundamental subjects required to become a music producer, sound engineer, music/TV composer, sound editor, music arranger, artist/performer, studio manager, A&R/label manager and many more exciting vocations.
You will learn: Music Production (Logic or Ableton), Music Composition, Sound Design, The Music Industry, Sound Engineering, and Production Styles.
Point Blank classes are small to ensure you receive ample 1-2-1 time with your lecturers. Our studios are located in Shoreditch—a global hub of London music venues and bars—and include industry-standard, state-of-the-art technology, including a 48-channel SSL Duality Delta and an Audient 8024 mixing console.
The CertHE Music Production and Sound Engineering course is the equivalent of year 1 of our 3-year degree programme. On successful completion of this course, you can contininue studying our 3-year degree programme.
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Program Outline
Modules
TERM 1
Module 1: 1. One of the following modules:
Music Production (Logic)
This module aims to develop your fundamental understanding of contemporary music production. You will learn technical production skills within a DAW that are central to the realisation of musical ideas: recording and editing MIDI and audio, pre-production considerations, drum programming, mixing, audio effects processing, automation and arrangement techniques.
You will have the opportunity to conceive and execute a production project, applying creative, technical, project management and reflective skills to aid your development as a producer and for professional life beyond.
Music Production (Ableton)
This module aims to develop your fundamental understanding of contemporary music production. You will learn technical production skills within a DAW that are central to the realisation of musical ideas: recording and editing MIDI and audio, pre-production considerations, drum programming, mixing, audio effects processing, automation and arrangement techniques.
You will have the opportunity to conceive and execute a production project, applying creative, technical, project management and reflective skills to aid your development as a producer and for professional life beyond.
Module 2: 2. Music Composition
Compositional proficiency is a core skill for contemporary producers and artists, equipping them with the ability to realise their creative ambitions and make more informed production decisions, whilst helping them become professionally competitive.
This module will explore the core elements of musical composition: rhythm, harmony, melody, structure, and arrangement. You will develop compositional techniques through practical application of music theory using music software.
This module focuses explicitly on commercial western popular musical styles, genres and their aesthetics. You will have the opportunity to investigate technical and stylistic aspects of these styles and genres, developing their confidence and abilities in composition. You will gain experience in composing original musical elements and arranging these elements into a full composition.
TERM 2
Module 3: 3. Sound Design
The Sound Design module is designed to facilitate your understanding of synthesis and sampling techniques through a practical exploration of modular software instruments.
The module will provide a solid grounding in the principles of sound creation integral to all aspects of electronic music production and will also build the knowledge and skills that are necessary for those aiming to work within a range of digital audio and media environments.
You will learn how to build your own modular software instrument, before using these to create a range of sounds that will be demonstrated within a compositional context.
Module 4: 4. Music Industry
This module aims to provide an overview of the music industry: what are the different components and how do they operate and interlink?
You will develop an awareness of different revenue sources, analysing areas including record labels, publishing, independent artists, digital distribution, and the varied ways that money flows through the industry. The importance and value of copyright will be explored, along with different music industry deals and agreements.
The knowledge, skills, and understanding developed in this module will provide you with the foundation for a successful and sustainable career within the music industry.
TERM 3
Module 5: 5. Sound Engineering
This module aims to develop technical skills in studio recording, explaining the basic requirements of signal flow, microphone placement, and corrective editing. You will have access to industry-standard studios and a range of specialist equipment to record, edit and manipulate a range of audio sources. There will be opportunities for you to work as an integrated member of a team whilst working in a variety of vocational contexts.
By focusing on modern engineering essentials, you will acquire knowledge and skills that you can apply in a variety of studio environments, from small home-based setups to large professional facilities.
Module 6: 6. Production Styles
This module aims to develop your understanding of how successful music is created through a process of analysis, research and practical application.
You will develop an informed awareness of key movements and developments in music production and artistry through culture and technology.
Analysis of landmark recordings, genre and production process will facilitate your ability to create authentic musical examples which adhere to specific industry briefs.
What are the landmark production styles that underpin genres, how do they influence musical innovation and what can be learnt from this?
Teaching & Learning
On our higher education programmes, students take part in a variety of intimate lectures (up to 16 students) and workshops. When not attending these sessions, you will be expected to continue learning independently. Independent learning is about taking control of your work, finding out what you need to know and deciding how you are going to study.
During this time, you can take advantage of:
A degree course consists of academic levels 4, 5 and 6. Each level consists of 120 credits. Each module is worth 20 credits and students are expected to study 10 hours per week per module (4 hours of lectures and 6 hours of independent learning).
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Point Blank Music School
Overview:
Point Blank Music School is a globally recognized institution offering music education in various disciplines. It has campuses in Los Angeles, London, Ibiza, Mumbai, and China, as well as an online platform. Point Blank specializes in music production, DJing, audio engineering, sound design, singing, songwriting, and music business.
Services Offered:
Point Blank offers a range of certificate and diploma programs, both in-person and online, across various music industry disciplines. These programs vary in duration, ranging from 3 months to 18 months. The school also provides access to professional-grade studios and Mac suites equipped with industry-standard software and hardware.
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The school provides access to professional-grade studios and Mac suites equipped with industry-standard software and hardware. Students can expect to learn from experienced instructors and have opportunities to network with industry professionals.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Industry-leading instructors:
Point Blank boasts a faculty of experienced professionals working in the music industry.State-of-the-art facilities:
Students have access to professional-grade studios and Mac suites equipped with industry-standard software and hardware.Global network:
Point Blank has a global network of schools and alumni, providing students with opportunities to connect with industry professionals worldwide.Point Blank Record Label:
The school has its own record label, offering students a platform to showcase their work and gain industry exposure.Academic Programs:
Point Blank offers a wide range of programs, including:
Music Production:
Covers various aspects of music production, including mixing, mastering, and sound design.Audio Engineering:
Focuses on the technical aspects of recording and sound engineering.DJing:
Provides training in DJ techniques, mixing, and performance.Singing and Songwriting:
Offers vocal training and songwriting techniques.Music Business:
Covers the business side of the music industry, including marketing, management, and licensing.Sound Design:
Focuses on creating sound effects for film, television, and video games.Film Scoring:
Provides training in composing music for film and television.Other:
Point Blank offers scholarships and bursaries to support students financially. The school also has a strong alumni network, with graduates working in various music industry roles.
Entry Requirements
First and foremost, we are looking for people who can demonstrate a) their passion for music and b) an ability to successfully complete a Higher Education programme. Where conditional offers are made, typical offers will be set from:
A Level:
CCBTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma:
M PP
If you don't have formal qualifications, don't worry, applicants without formal qualifications may still be considered on the strength of relevant prior learning and experience.
We will initially assess your personal statement which should detail any previous study or relevant experience in music. Then the Admissions Team will look at the merits of each application by taking the following evidence into consideration: predicted or previously attained grades, examples of work and relevant work experience. Applicants who do not meet the typical entry requirements may also be asked to attend an interview.
Click here for more information on our entry requirements, international qualifications and how to apply.
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