BIMM Bristol: Guitar Courses
"At last, a real school for real players...BIMM rocks!" - Ace (Skunk Anansie)
We take guitar playing very seriously. The Guitar Tutors at BIMM live and breathe guitar. 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:
Foundation Degree |
BIMM Professional Diploma (Level 5) |
Summer Schools |
Highway To Hell Summer School
Foundation Degree in Professional Musicianship*
BIMM in partnership with Bath Spa University
Applications
Applications for the Foundation Degree have to be made through UCAS: http://www.ucas.com/
UCAS Course Code: W310 - Institution Code: B20 - Campus Code: M
*subject to approval
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 DD grades at A Level or MP at National Diploma Level (120 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, and in addition to receiving their UCAS application we make decisions based upon their whole application, their assessment and their 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 (FdA) 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 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.
The course is composed of 12 modules which provide a strong balance of instrumental, practical and academic study.
Year 1 topics covered will include: Technical Instrumental Development; Musical Styles and Repertoire; Music Business and Personal Management; Study Skills; Music Theory and Arrangement, Aural and Notation Skills, Pre-Production Skills and Live Performance Workshop.
Year 2 topics covered will include: Critical Insights into 20th Century Music; Applied Technical Development; Session Skills; Engaging with Industry; Creative Composition and Arrangement; Transcription and Critical Listening Skills and Live Music Project.
In addition to practical and academic lessons, course delivery is supported by BIMM's comprehensive tutorial system that enables every student to benefit from widespread access to music industry professionals for expert help and advice. There are many extra-curricular activities including rehearsing, recording and performing in public, and visits from high level professional musicians and other music industry personnel.
BIMM Foundation Degree students also have access to a range of student services at Bath Spa Universityıs Newton Park campus, including Student Union membership, library provision, careers advice, student support and electronic resources including a web-based Virtual Learning Environment.
Success in all modules will lead to the award of a Foundation Degree (FdA). Possible further study options include the possibility of applying to progress to Year 3 of the BA (Hons) In Professional Musicianship at BIMM Brighton, BIMM Bristol *subject to validation or Year 3 of the BA (Hons) in Music at Bath Spa University.
BIMM Professional Diploma (Level 5) in modern music
The BIMM Professional Diploma (Level 5) is suitable for musicians who have semi professional musical and technical abilities, and usually have some semi professional studio and live experience.
The unit structure of the course looks like this:
| Unit |
Description |
| Styles and Techniques |
Guitar players and styles - and relevant tone production and guitar techniques from Blues to the present day - will be studied and mastered, providing the basis for a modern, all round player. |
| Advanced Musicianship |
Continuing from Styles and Techniques, this will enable students to develop in other guitarist areas, as well as enhancing their musical vocabulary. A disciplined approach to regular practice is essential. |
| Business Studies |
Practical 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 plans etc. |
| Gig Preparation |
Plan and rehearse for 3 key performances. Rehearsal technique, promotion, marketing, leadership, venues and promoters, tour management, stage management, budgeting etc. |
| Pre-Production |
The preparation of songs to professional studio standards. Parts, arrangement, tone and performance will all be broken down and analyzed. This is the opportunity to put into practice what has been learned in Styles. Working to click track will be essential. |
| Modules |
An opportunity to focus on an area of development of you’d like to work on. Choose between courses on Backing Vocals, Song writing, Shred Guitar or Advanced Acoustic Guitar.* subject to change annually |
| LPW |
Making songs work live. 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 pro band through a big PA. |
| Theory and Aural |
A 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 Reading |
Learning sight-reading and transcription skills that may give you the edge over the competition. |
The course is one academic year in duration, and students may wish to progress onto the BA (Hons) in Professional Musicianship Degree at BIMM Brighton or BIMM Bristol *subject to validation. The Accrediting body is Edexcel. This course is approximately 15 hours per week and students will also be engaged in many extra curricular activities including extensive rehearsal and live performances.
Entry Requirements:
- 18 years of age and semi-pro playing ability
- Some studio and gigging experience
- Grade 6 equivalent technical skills
- Most applicants have National Diploma or A-Level or equivalent in Music
- Some music degree graduates also find this course useful for upgrading their technique to professional levels
SUMMER SCHOOLS
4 day intensive tuition for Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals and Keyboards run at BIMM Brighton
Course Features:
- Intensive technical development taught by top UK session players
- Essential Styles - Classic Rock, Blues, R'n'B, Funk etc
- Live Performance Skills - Performance classic tunes with a professional backline and PA under the guidance of experienced producers
- Develop your own personal practice routine with the help of professional tutors
For more information, please check out BIMM Brighton website or email info@bimm.co.uk
HIGHWAY TO HELL SUMMER SCHOOL
BIMM take the summer school on the road - please check out BIMM News for more details or email info@bimm.co.uk
