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Music Courses - BIMM

BIMM Bristol: Drum Courses

"I f***kin love it!!!" - Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers)

We take drum playing very seriously. The Drum Tutors at BIMM live and breathe drums. Learning with us is not just about being presented with information - it's about spending time with professionals in a working environment. These players will give you personal feedback on your development and will push you to reach your full potential.

Plus, importantly whatever course you take, you will study a Music Business module. This will ensure you have the full potential and knowledge to pursue a successful career in the music industry.

Courses: BA (Hons) in Professional Musicianship | BIMM Foundation Degree in Professional Musicianship | BIMM Professional Diploma in Modern Music – Drums | BIMM Artist Development Diploma | BIMM Total Guitar Summer School – BIMM Bristol | Metal Hammer Summer School - BIMM Brighton | BIMM Total Guitar Summer School - BIMM Brighton

BA (Hons) in Professional Musicianship

with University of Sussex 

The BA Honours programme is both academically and musically challenging. There is a focus on live performance, technique, songwriting and stylistic development in addition to research and project work in the field. Students undertake professional work during the course of their studies. Degree Graduates had chart successes, session work with major artists, professional teaching work and appearances as session players on all the major TV music shows.

Entry Requirements

  • BIMM Professional Diploma at Merit or above; or equivalent level 4 qualification.
  • Successful completion of the first year of an external Undergraduate Music programme of at least 120 credits.
  • 2 A-levels at Grade C or equivalent (160 UCAS tariff points).
  • Grade 8 instrumental or equivalent practical skills.
  • APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning) can result in direct entry to year two for applicants with appropriate HND or equivalent plus relevant professional experience.
  • All applicants are interviewed individually - a strong work ethic and career focus alongside a willingness to engage in academic as well as vocational study will be a definite advantage for applicants on this demanding course.

For more information:

BIMM Foundation Degree in Professional Musicianship

BIMM in partnership with Bath Spa University

UCAS Course Code: W310    Institution Code: B20    Campus Code: M

Applications for the Foundation Degree should be made through UCAS:  www.ucas.com

Location                                 

BIMM Bristol 

Entry Requirements        

  • The majority of successful applicants will have CCC grades at A Level or an MMM profile in the BTEC National Diploma (200-240 UCAS points).   However the minimum requirement for entry is EE grades at A Level or PP at National Diploma Level (80 UCAS points).        
  • Applicants are also required to have performing ability equivalent to Trinity Grade 6-8, together with Grade 5 or equivalent level music theory.·        
  • Applicants will be interviewed and auditioned at BIMM Bristol, and in addition to receiving the UCAS application BIMM will make decisions based upon the whole application, the assessment and the qualifications. We also look for an enthusiasm for performing combined with a strong professional work ethic and career focus. These will all be seen as definite advantages for prospective students.        
  • Applications are welcomed from mature students with relevant professional experience and an aptitude/willingness to undertake a course of study at HE level.

The Course

The Foundation Degree (FdMus) in Professional Musicianship is a two-year course which aims to equip musicians with the key practical, theoretical and business skills required for a long-term career in the music industry.  Validated by Bath Spa University, the BIMM Bristol Foundation Degree integrates vocational skills in music performance with academic study and work-based learning.

By studying on the programme you will work towards achieving the following aims:        

  • The development of professional-level performance skills in a wide variety of styles for your chosen instrument: drums, guitar, bass or vocals.      
  • The opportunity to undertake work experience in the music industry.         
  • The acquisition of personal transferable skills such as team work, communication and presentation skills, academic research and study skills, and self-management.       
  •  A thorough understanding of the career paths available within the music industry.

For more information:

BIMM Professional Diploma in Modern Music – Drums

Location                                 

BIMM Brighton and BIMM Bristol 

Course Overview

This course is equivalent to first year degree level study and designed for musicians with semi- professional ability. The Professional Diploma is an intensive one year programme, which will help a musician reach their full potential on their instrument.  In addition to the performance focus, a comprehensive understanding of the music industry and personal career planning is developed.

Course Contents

 Unit

 Description

Styles and TechniquesGenre-based performance workshops focusing on the sounds and skills found in each style as it evolved. Includes historical context, critical listening and the techniques used by the world’s most influential drummers.
Advanced MusicianshipContinuing from Styles and Techniques, this unit will enable musicians to develop in other areas of technical study, as well as enhancing their musical vocabulary.  A disciplined approach to regular practice is essential for success in this unit.
Music BusinessPractical music industry knowledge that will help you plan your career. We will cover all aspects of the music industry in comprehensive detail including record deals, publishing deals, management, music synchronization, legal issues, copyright, music teaching, live music, and business planning.
Artist DevelopmentPlanning of key performances at local, national and international levels. Rehearsal technique, promotion, marketing, leadership, venues and promoters, tour management, stage management and budgeting are all areas for study.  Attention to detail and focus on how to make things happen at the highest level.
Pre–ProductionThe preparation of songs to professional studio standards. Parts, arrangement, tone and performance will all be broken down and analysed. This is the opportunity to put into practice what has been learned in Styles and Techniques.  Working to a click track will be essential.
Live Performance Workshop (LPW)Making songs studied in Pre - Production work in a live setting. Learning a vocabulary for communicating ideas with other musicians. Working on making sure that your band and performance is tight, well arranged and professional, and sounds like a professional band through a big PA.
Theory and Aural PerceptionA comprehensive look at how music works and the practical application of theoretical concepts; understanding what you hear in terms of song structure, instrumentation and harmony.
Sight ReadingLearning sight-reading and transcription skills that may give you the edge over the competition.  The ability to sight-read and write music notation is essential for securing show gigs, teaching work and many other different engagements.
ModulesAn opportunity to focus on an additional area of development relevant to your chosen discipline, for example, Jazz Drums, or Rhythm Section workshop.
 *  Any information in the prospectus and on our website is believed to be correct but is not part of any agreement with

parents/students and the Institute. Courses and course content are regularly reviewed and may be subject to change.

Progression Route                        

BIMM Foundation Degree in Professional Musicianship or 

BA (Hons) In Professional Musicianship 

Entry Requirements

  • Minimum entry requirements are 5 GCSEs at C or above (including English).
  • Grade 6 – 8 equivalent playing skills.
  • Some music degree graduates also find this course useful for upgrading their technique to professional levels

For more information:

BIMM Artist Development Diploma

Location                            

BIMM Brighton or BIMM Bristol

Course Overview

This course is equivalent to 2 ‘A’ levels. It is designed for players with solid ability, but who may need help in becoming fully rounded musicians.  This course is all about ‘getting out there’, being seen and heard and gaining the confidence of a professional musician.  A fundamental understanding of the music industry is developed alongside performance and technical skills. 

Course Contents*
UnitDescription
Technical DevelopmentA good technique is essential if a more efficient and accurate execution of musical ideas is the aim.  Musicians will be taken through a logical technical study path, in order to facilitate better technique.  Grip, posture, balance, technique, rudiments, time systems etc. will all be studied.
Session StylesA study of the sounds and styles of some of the worlds’ most influential drummers. Artists such as Ringo Starr, Keith Moon, John Bonham, Dave Grohl, Lars Ulrich, Steve Gadd, Vinnie Colaiuta and Buddy Rich are all included for study, in order to broaden the range of the student’s stylistic knowledge.
Pre ProductionThis lecture encourages the preparation of songs to the standard of a professional band/artist. Parts, arrangement, sound and performance will all be analysed, with the emphasis on simplicity being taken to a very high standard.  Attention to detail is paramount.
Live Performance Workshop (LPW)Making the songs studied in Pre - Production work in a live setting. Learning to communicate ideas with other musicians, with the focus on a tight, well arranged and professional performance.
Sight Reading & Ear Training

Sharpening your ear. Learning sight reading skills that will give musicians the edge over the competition. The ability to sight-read music notation is essential for securing show gigs, teaching work and many other engagements in the music industry.

Music TheoryA comprehensive look at music theory and the practical application of theoretical concepts, essential for writing, arranging and understanding the science behind the song.
The Music IndustryPractical music industry knowledge that will help you plan your career. Musicians will be taken through all aspects of the music industry, including record and publishing deals, management, music synchronisation, legal issues, copyright, music teaching, live music, business plans, etc.
Music in ContextA history of classic artists placed in their social, historical and political context.  Artists studied include Elvis Presley, Nina Simone, Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Bob Marley, Marvin Gaye, Curtis Mayfield, David Bowie, Sex Pistols, Led Zeppelin, Public Enemy, Nirvana and Radiohead.  Essential stylistic knowledge which will develop authenticity in performance.
Performance PreperationPlanning for key performances at local and national level.  Rehearsal technique, promotion, marketing, leadership, venues and promoters, tour management, stage management and budgeting are all studied.
 Extended Studies A chance to recap and review key areas of the curriculum, as well as receiving information relating to assessments, auditions and guests
*Any information in the prospectus and on our website is believed to be correct but is not part of any agreement with

parents/students and the Institute. Courses and course content are regularly reviewed and may be subject to change.

Progression Route               

BIMM Professional Diploma in Modern Music or BIMM Foundation Degree in Professional Musicianship 

 

Entry Requirements

  • Minimum entry requirement for this course is 4 GCSE’s at C or above (including English).
  • Grade 4 – 6 equivalent playing skills.
  • Other instruments, band work and songwriting also an advantage
  • Bring your demos when you audition!

For more information:

BIMM Total Guitar Summer School – BIMM Bristol

Four day intensive tuition for Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals and Keyboards. Based in BIMM Bristol. 

Course Features:

Develop your own personal practise routine with the help of professional tutors.

  • Intensive Technical Development and indie/pop/blues/funk– styles work outs taught by top UK session players.
  • Live Performance Workshop under the guidance of experienced pro players using a pro backline and PA system.
  • Artists Covered Include: Duffy, The Killers, Kings Of Leon, Oasis, Bloc Party, Babyshambles, The White Stripes, Foals, Kaiser Chiefs, The Kooks, Franz Ferdinand, Arctic Monkeys, Feeder, Led Zeppelin, Lenny Kravitz, Jimi Hendrix, U2, Queen and Eric Clapton.

* Star Tutors have included members of: Mark Richardson (Feeder), Toy (The Faders), Alex Dickson (Robbie Williams), Kenwyn House (Reef), Alonza Bevan (Kulashaker/Johnny Marr), Kate Cameron (Fat Boy Slim), Billie Godfrey (Beverley Knight), Guthrie Govan (Asia/Guitar Techniques), Vinnie Lammi (Mel C/Spice Girls), Dave Neil (Rooster), Andy Norton (The Crimea), Loz (Kerrang! Radio) and James Hester (Malakai/Drummer Magazine).

* Please note this is subject to change.

 

BIMM Metal Hammer Summer School - BIMM Brighton

Four day intensive tuition for Guitar, Bass, Drums and Vocals. Based in BIMM Brighton.

Course Features:

  • Develop your own personal practice routine with the help of professional tutors.
  • Intensive Technical Development and rock/metal – styles work outs taught by top UK session players.
  • Live Performance Workshop under the guidance of experienced pro players using a pro backline and PA system.
  • Artists Covered Include: Queens of the Stone Age, Foo Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Muse, Hundred Reasons, Tool, The Darkness, Black Sabbath, Metallica, Iron Maiden, NOFX, Machine Head, Funeral for a Friend, System of a Down, Incubus and Deftones.

*Star Tutors have included members of: Ace (Skunk Anansie), Colin Doran (Hundred Reasons/The Lucky 9, Jeff Walker (Carcass), Michael McKeegan (Therapy), Dan Carter (A), Julia Ruzicka (Million Dead), Mark Clayden (Pitchshifter/This Is Menace), Kieron Pepper (The One Condition/The Prodigy), Mikee Goodman (Sikth), Adrian Erlandsson (Cradle of Filth) and Paul Fletcher (Romeo Must Die/This Is Menace).

* Please note this is subject to change.

BIMM Total Guitar Summer School - BIMM Brighton

Four day intensive tuition for Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals and Keys. Based in BIMM Brighton.

Course Features:

  • Develop your own personal practise routine with the help of professional tutors.
  • Intensive Technical Development and indie/pop/blues/funk– styles work outs taught by top UK session players.
  • Live Performance Workshop under the guidance of experienced pro players using a pro backline and PA system.
  • Artists Covered Include: Duffy, The Killers, Kings Of Leon, Oasis, Bloc Party, Babyshambles, The White Stripes, Foals, Kaiser Chiefs, The Kooks, Franz Ferdinand, Arctic Monkeys, Feeder, Led Zeppelin, Lenny Kravitz, Jimmy Hendrix, U2, Queen and Eric Clapton.

*Star Tutors have included members of: Mark Richardson (Feeder), Toy (The Faders), Alex Dickson (Robbie Williams), Kenwyn House (Reef), Alonza Bevan (Kulashaker/Johnny Marr), Kate Cameron (Fat Boy Slim), Billie Godfrey (Beverley Knight), Geoffrey Williams (Michael Jackson), Guthrie Govan (Asia/Guitar Techniques), Steve Allsworth (Ronan Keating/Total Guitar), Vinnie Lammi (Mel C/Spice Girls), Dave Neil (Rooster), Andy Norton (The Crimea), Loz (Kerrang! Radio) and James Hester (Malakai/Drummer Magazine).

* Please note this is subject to change.

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