The Certificate in Foundation Sound and Music is a 34 week programme designed to prepare students for further successful study. There is a focus on developing improved communication, literacy, numeracy, music, computer and self-directed study skills.
The Foundation programme is a useful introduction for students interested in exploring whether they want to work in live sound, audio engineering or music performance. All students study the basics of music and sound but are able to focus on one of these areas in preparation for further study.
Students who hope to move into the Certificate in Contemporary Music Performance the following year rehearse several times per week, give regular performances in the MAINZ Auditorium and receive individual tuition on their chosen instrument. Students more interested in audio begin analogue and digital 4-track recording using compression and digital effects in a well equipped project studio. Graduates with Merit passes are guaranteed direct entry into any other MAINZ Certificate programme.
All students have twice-weekly group rehearsals with tutors and the class also works on a major CD recording project. This involves composition, musicianship, engineering, pre-production, production, mixing and mastering, and working with industry professionals to produce a recording of songs written by members of the class.
Throughout the year students have contact with tutors from the Audio and Music departments as well as guest speakers and performers active in the music industry.
Core Elements
Levels 1, 2 and 3 Unit Standards in:
Learning Skills
Mathematics
Computer Studies
Music Knowledge
Music Skills
Sound Technology
Sound Operations
MIDI Basics
Career Opportunities
The purpose of this programme is to help students gain the qualification to apply for a place in Live Sound, Music Performance or Audio Engineering. It is designed to give students a taste of these three Certificate programmes, and is particularly appropriate for students who would like to work in the music industry but are not sure where.
Entry Requirements
The programme is open to anybody interested in a career in the entertainment industry.
