Music

Do you want to be a musician? What about an MC, a DJ or a vocal artist? Prefer to bring everything together behind the scenes, as a producer? In the ever-changing world of music, there are numerous opportunities out there just waiting for you. So take the first step and make your dream a reality.

What next?
With the British music industry experiencing a boom with the likes of Pixie Lott and Dizzee Rascal, there are thousands of jobs available in the global music market. Work as a songwriter, talent scout, musician, teacher, DJ, producer, composer or studio engineer - the choice is yours. Alternatively, progress onto university to further enhance your skills.

Potential Careers
Backing singer:£110 - £350 per three hour session
DJ: £50 - £350 per session
Music teacher: £26k - £35k per year
Promotions manager: £21k - £42k per year
Radio broadcast assistant:£13k - £25k per year

Duriel Mensah is an aspiring record producer.

While studying BTEC Extended Diploma in Music Technology at Redbridge College from 2009 to 2011 his work received critical acclaim from world famous producer Darkchild.

Duriel is now studying BSc (Hons) Music Technology at the University of Kent.

Duriel says: "Music is something I was born with – I’ve just always loved it. I first heard about Redbridge College through my school, Mayfield High, and came to visit an Open Day. I was amazed by the College’s facilities and what was on offer. From then on, I knew the only thing that I wanted to study was Music Technology.

"Choosing to study at Redbridge College was a great decision for me and one that I can’t even really begin to put into words. The most important thing for me was the support I received from teachers at the College. I had never really considered that going to university would be important but they helped me to see the value of it and really pushed me to apply. The advice they gave me and how they were able to understand my position was really good.

"The skills I learnt while at the College, like the acoustics needed to project sound across a room, have been applicable at university and in my production work. There are so many things I have learnt which give me the edge over other producers.

"There are so many things I have learnt which give me the edge over other producers"

"There is more freedom at college than at school but the most important thing I learnt was how to focus. My time at Redbridge College taught me how to become a better person and the importance of taking education seriously – it really prepared me for university.

"While at the College a friend and I entered a competition organised by American producer Darkchild, who has produced for some of the biggest artists in the world like Kanye West and Beyonce. Our track finished in the top five globally and Darkchild gave us some amazing personal feedback. It’s something that I cherish a lot and has helped me since with both my motivation and getting noticed within the music industry.

"I’m now midway through my first year studying BSc Music Technology at the University of Kent. Living on campus is a great experience and something I think everyone should do if they have the opportunity. At the moment I’m working on some singles and an album which will be sent to some of the UK’s top artists. The next challenge is to work really hard to continue pushing my name and brand.”

Listen to Komenz’s tracks at www.soundcloud.com/komenzpro

Last Word Records
Students will have the opportunity to get involved with the running of Redbridge College's own record label, Last Word Records, which is based onsite. This will give you experience in all aspects of running an independent company, and could lead to your involvement in tours, marketing campaigns and artist development.

Professional Recording Experiences
Looking for a unique present? Our selection of Experience sessions will suit both the enthusiastic amateur and the seasoned professional and are available to purchase as gift vouchers. Click here fore full details.

Redbridge College is now an Authorised Apple Training Centre, which means that through the College you can become Apple Certified in Logic Pro. This professional application streamlines the process of recording, editing, and mixing your music whether you work in a state-of-the-art studio or even in your own garage.

Why you should become an Apple Certified Pro

Raise your earning potential. Studies show that certified professionals can earn more than their non-certified peers
Distinguish yourselves from others in your industry. Proven mastery of technology helps you stand out from the crowd
Increase your marketability. Hiring managers tend to favour candidates whose knowledge and skills are validated by certification.
Advance more quickly in your career. Take control of your career in a fast-paced, dynamic world. With shortages in many specialised fields, certification can give you control of your own path and help you progress more quickly through the ranks.
Publicise your Apple Certification. Each certification provides a logo to display on business cards, resumes and websites. In addition, you can publish your certifications on the Apple Certified Professionals Registry to connect with schools, clients and employers.

How do I apply?
In order to gain your Apple Certified Pro certificate you will need to be a music student at Redbridge College and apply through the College's customer services.

Career Academy
Ambitious level 3 graphic design, media and music students have exclusive access to Redbridge College's Creative & Media Career Academy, providing a range of extras to give you an edge in this competitive industry, including:

• A six-week paid internship during the summer
• Trips to exhibitions, gigs, trade shows and behind-the-scenes at filming locations
• Guru lectures by industry professionals
• One-to-one mentoring by musicians/media practitioners
• Employer-led seminars, work-site visits, practice interviews and CV development