Digi-guide - Creative Arts

Music and Music Technology

Music and music technology students at the college can look forward to a range of opportunities including access to the latest recording and producing equipment, access to createrecords.co.uk which showcases the best in student song writing, production and performance.

Courses available at the college range from Level 1 to Level 3. Some higher-level courses are offered through Vision University Centre.

Music and music technology students have the opportunity to write, produce and record their own compositions.

The college's radio station allows students to build skills in live and recorded broadcasting.

Music students have access to a baby grand piano and rehearsal space to create professional soundtracks.

The mixing desks allow aspiring producers to get industry-ready and produce professional quality work.

Music and music technology students work together to produce music from planning through to post-production.

Students have plenty of opportunity to rehearse and perform their own work - and work with multimedia students on producing video content.

Career SpotlightChris Miggels | Musician

Since attending West Notts in 1999, Christopher Miggels has orchestrated an impressive career in music. When he isn’t spending time at the piano keys in performances across the UK and Europe, Chris is tutoring others and sharing his knowledge, the foundation of which he believes started right here at college.

Christopher Miggles - Musician

What did you study at college?

I came to college between 2009-11, studying the HND National Diploma in Music Performance.

Following this, I completed a top-up degree at NCN Clarendon Academy of Music and Performing Arts, studying the BA (Hons) Sonic Arts course, graduating with a first class degree.

I then studied at the University of Nottingham, going on to achieve a Master’s degree in music.

What were your highlights whilst studying at college?

A glowing highlight would have to be the tuition. Small class sizes allowed us to take advantage of valuable one-to-one learning time which resultantly became available with the tutors.

Another fond memory included being invited to showcase my musical talent at the college's Higher Education Graduation Ceremony – a great honour for a first year student.

And what have you since gone on to achieve?

Since my time at college, I’ve been working to build a career as a professional freelance musician and educator. I have been a full-time solo pianist, performing at concerts, functions and special events – I also compose my own music.

When I’m not performing, I tutor piano at a performing arts academy. I’ve also been lucky enough to have been invited to speak as a guest speaker at various events – giving talks on innovative music theory and piano master classes.

What do you think to the facilities available to students at college (studying music)?

I have fond memories of playing a vintage Blüthner (a prestigious German brand) grand piano at the college, which I'm very pleased to know, has now been fully restored to its former glory. It even had the patent Aliquot stringing which is quite rare … if you play the piano, you're in for a treat!

The Apple iMac suites were also a dream; they were all equipped with the latest recording software for the time.

What advice would you give to someone looking to get into music?

Work hard, be patient and persevere.
Push the boundaries. Strive to make yourself a better musician every day, and never stop.
Branch out, expand and diversify. Being versatile and offering a variety of skills and talents can greatly increase your chances of employment within the music industry.

Why would you recommend West Notts as a place to study music?

The college has gone from strength to strength, and the brand new facilities at the Derby Road campus are impressive. Based on my own experience, I’d expect great things!

Whether it’s performing music or creating it, you’ll need a qualification behind you to ensure you’re best equipped to take on this competitive industry.

The music industry is big business and spans many genres. From classical compositions to contemporary sounds – you’ll hear music on radio, TV and film, to clubs, concerts and events across the world.

Where you choose to work in music will depend on your talents and interests. Some people may wish to take the spotlight and shine on stage, while others prefer to take a backseat and work in production. The array of jobs available to you in music is vast.

You could find yourself working in a number of different areas, from performing, music promotion and production, to related careers including teaching music or music for therapy.

You may also choose to branch out into related areas, from writing reviews in the press, to organising music events.

At West Notts, our music and music technology courses are designed to equip you with the skills needed for the music industry. You’ll have access to state-of-the-art equipment– helping you to produce high-quality productions to impress potential employers.

Course can lead on to university-level study or employment.