Higher Music Technology

About this course

1 year course split between UHI Perth and Perth High School – students from other schools can apply subject to availability.

The course is aimed at those students who wish to make music with technology. The course will explore creative ways to make music in a wide range of styles and genres.

This course provides a foundation in music technology that can be utilised in a range of practical applications: composition and performance; sound design; electronic music production; playback technology.

It is recommended that students taking this course use consider recording utilising their strengths in musical performance which can also include DJ’ing and electronic music performances.

This course works well alongside Higher Music.

Course content

We will explore music from post-second world war to present day that utilises technology in musical production. The course covers a wide range of genres and applications from modern classical music and film music to popular forms of music such as reggae, dance music, funk.

We will look at the following topics in a creative context: recording audio, processing audio (editing, FX), sequencing, mixing and sampling, intellectual property.

The skills taught are the basis for a wide range of employment opportunities: sound design, video game production, playback technology (live and theatre), sound and record production, musical composition. In addition, teamwork and strong communication skills are essential for some roles such as recording and planning recordings.

Assessment information

30% Exam (1hr); 70% Student choice of a musical work (4-7 mins, 10 tracks min). Typically these are soundtracks for film/video games or music as featured as part of a radio broadcast.

Entry requirements

Candidates should have achieved the National 5 Music Technology course or equivalent qualifications and/or experience prior to starting this course.

Course progression

• Advanced Higher Music Technology
• HNC Music
• HNC Sound Production