RSL Level 2 Certificate in Music Practitioners
Equivalent to a GCSE Qualification
Why Study This Course?
The RSL Level 2 Certificate in Music Practitioners is a vocationally focused qualification designed for aspiring musicians, producers, songwriters, and music entrepreneurs. It provides a practical and industry-relevant approach to learning music, equipping students with real-world skills applicable to the contemporary music industry.
This course is ideal for students who:
· Want to develop practical music skills in performance, production, and composition.
· Are interested in songwriting, live performance, or music technology.
· Aspire to work in the music industry, either as artists, producers, or business professionals.
· Prefer a hands-on approach to learning music over a traditional academic qualification.
· Want a fully regulated and recognised qualification that allows for progression to Level 3 Diplomas or A-Level Music.
Who is This Course For?
This course is suitable for students who:
· Have a passion for music performance, composition, or music production.
· Want to gain practical experience in live performance and digital music production.
· Are considering further study in music or careers in the creative industries.
· Have no prior music qualifications but are committed to learning an instrument or improving their musical skills.
This course is delivered flexibly online, allowing students to study at their own pace with access to live and recorded lessons
Course Delivery
- Two live lessons per week, covering theory and practical applications.
- All live lessons are recorded, allowing students to revisit content as needed.
- One-to-one support sessions are available for individual guidance on assignments and progress.
- The course begins with an induction where students discuss their musical background and goals.
Course Duration
- Standard Track: 2 years (can be extended for an additional fee).
Entry Requirements
- No formal music qualifications required, but students must be willing to learn an instrument or sing.
- Technical Requirements:
- Home Broadband connection.
- A PC or Mac with one of the following DAWs installed: GarageBand, Cubase, Logic, Ableton, Bandlab, Soundtrap, MuseScore, or Sibelius.
- A MIDI keyboard or instrument of choice.
This course fosters musical creativity, technical proficiency, and industry knowledge, preparing students for further study and careers in the music industry.
1. Music Performance & Composition
- Developing instrumental or vocal skills.
- Understanding chord progressions, melodies, and harmony.
- Writing original songs, beats, and compositions.
2. Digital Music Production & Recording
- Using DAWs to create and edit tracks.
- Applying recording techniques and studio production skills.
- Understanding audio effects, mixing, and mastering.
3. Live Performance & Music Industry Knowledge
- Preparing for live gigs and studio performances.
- Exploring the music business, copyright, and publishing.
- Understanding how to promote music and build an audience.
Upon completion, students can progress to:
Further Education:
- A-Level Music.
- RSL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Music Practitioners.
- Other vocational music courses in production, performance, or composition.
Potential Career Paths:
- Musician / Vocalist – Live performer, session musician, or recording artist.
- Music Producer – Creating tracks, beats, and working in studio environments.
- Songwriter / Composer – Writing for artists, film, TV, or video games.
- Sound Engineer – Working in recording studios, live sound, or post-production.
- Music Business & Marketing – Promoting artists, managing events, and working in record labels and streaming platforms.
The course assesses students based on the following objectives:
| Objective | Description | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| AO1 | Demonstrate practical musical skills in performance, composition, and production | 40% |
| AO2 | Apply music industry knowledge and technical understanding | 30% |
| AO3 | Evaluate and reflect on musical work and industry applications | 30% |
A Practical Alternative to GCSE Music
This course is ideal for students who prefer hands-on learning over traditional exam-based assessments.
Industry-Relevant Learning
Students gain real-world music industry knowledge, preparing them for careers as musicians, producers, and music entrepreneurs.
Recognised and Respected Qualification
The RSL Level 2 Certificate in Music Practitioners is a fully accredited qualification equivalent to a GCSE, accepted by colleges and universities.
Flexible Online Learning
With live and recorded lessons, students can learn at their own pace while receiving one-on-one tutor support.
Course Structure
The qualification consists of mandatory and optional units focusing on key areas of the music industry.
Core Units (Mandatory)
Students must complete the following core units to gain their qualification:
Skills Assessed:
- Sound Creation – Understanding how to create and manipulate sound in a musical or production setting.
- Using a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) – Learning how to use software such as GarageBand, Cubase, Logic, Ableton, or Soundtrap to create and edit music.
- Studio Recording – Developing skills in recording techniques, microphone placement, and sound engineering.
- Creating Music – Composing and arranging original pieces using digital and instrumental techniques.
Additional Units Include:
- Instrumental Performance – Developing technical skills and expressive techniques on an instrument or as a vocalist.
- Live Music Performance – Preparing for and executing professional live performances.
- Music Style in Context – Exploring different music genres, their history, and their cultural significance.
