This week there are 2 main focus areas:

1. Auditions for Performance Pathways
2. A Song Study of Let’s Dance by David Bowie including, Listening, Analysing and Sequencing tasks

Non-performers and Music Tech/production pathway applicants can skip to the song analysis task below

Auditions

Normally we would have held auditions in college for our courses which feature performing as a main unit study; these courses include A level Music and BTEC Music (Performing). 

Music Production (also known as BTEC Music Technology) does not require an audition but we will need to hear or see evidence of past experience using technology or computers to make music (this is covered by the “getting to know you” survey from week 1).

This year, instead of an audition for A level and BTEC Music Performance we will be asking you to upload a video of you performing instead. You can view our updated Youtube playlist with guidance for the most common instruments here:

You will need to upload your audition to us between Monday 6th and Wednesday 8th July and we will post guidance on how to do this the week before. In the meantime you can be preparing and rehearsing your song.

Under normal circumstances we ask guitarists, bassists and drummers to play a piece of Music from the Rockschool Grade 5 syllabus called “Do Balanco”. All other instruments usually choose their own piece with or without accompaniment. 

This year we would still like it if you could play this piece. However, we are willing to be more flexible: you just need to send us a video (upload link to follow) of you playing your instrument (or singing) as long as you follow the guidance below

• Accompaniment or backing tracks are encouraged but not compulsory.
• If using a backing track please make sure it is not louder than you. We need to hear what you are playing clearly.
• You should aim to play for 2-3 minutes (or a full song).
• Try to make sure you are visible in shot, in a well lit room.
• Avoid filming the video in your bedroom.
• Please make sure you are wearing appropriate clothing for a college audition.
• Pieces from GCSE or BTEC performances at school are acceptable.
• If you have private tuition for your instrument, speak to your teacher about what they think is a good audition piece for you to choose.

Remember you don’t need to upload anything just yet. That will happen between the 6th and 8th July.

Good luck and we are looking forward to seeing your work. 

Song Study – Let’s Dance by David Bowie (Virtual Priestley Task 4)

This assignment is suitable for all Music Pathways and courses at Priestley.

For this assignment you will complete 2 tasks.

1. A bandlab task where you will complete some practical sequencing tasks (written instructions are provided within the task)
2. An interactive analysis of the song.

Instructions are provided within the Youtube Playlist for Music. Look for Task 4 in the playlist.

Links to the activities are provided below:

Let’s Dance Bandlab task

Sign up / log in Bandlab

Priestley Music YouTube playlist

Let’s Dance Analysis – your feedback form