Overview
Music Performance HNDThe Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Music Performance develops students into independent, industry-ready performers, building on the skills developed at Level 4 to support progression into employment or further study.
Students refine their performance practice and musicianship while developing professional skills in project management, collaboration and critical evaluation. The course emphasises real-world industry contexts, enabling students to respond to briefs, perform to a professional standard and establish their own artistic identity.
Graduates leave with the skills, knowledge and confidence to progress into careers within the music industry or onto Level 6 study.
Why study this course?
By studying at Bedford College, students benefit from a dedicated HE environment and access to our state-of-the-art recording studios, rehearsal rooms and performance opportunities, supporting the development of professional, industry-ready performers.
At Level 5, the course focuses on advancing performance skills and musicianship through real-world projects, live performance and industry-style briefs. Students develop a strong professional portfolio while gaining experience in collaboration, rehearsal, and managing performance projects.
The programme places emphasis on employability and progression, helping students refine their artistic identity, build confidence on stage, and prepare for careers in the music industry or progression to Level 6 study.
Ready to apply?
Important information
- No. of contact hours
12 hours per week.
- Expected self-study
You will be expected to study in your own time – hours to be confirmed by your tutor.
- Regulatory body
Pearson.
Course information
Essential:
- A pass at a relevant Level 4 qualification (e.g. HNC in Music Performance or equivalent)
- GCSE English and Maths at grade 4 or above (or Level 2 Functional Skills)
Desirable:
- A portfolio of music production work
- Relevant industry experience
- Successful interview
Module:
- Professional Creative Practice (B)
Assessment Units:
- Personal Professional Development (B1)
- Professional Project (B2)
Indicative Areas of Study:
- Creative Research Project
- Creative Portfolio
- Developing as an Artist
- Working in Music Education
- Performing with Technology
Specialist Areas of Study:
- Advanced Performance Techniques
- Studio Musicianship
Students will develop advanced performance, musical and professional skills to support progression into the music industry or further study.
These include:
- Advanced performance practice and musicianship
- Ensemble work, collaboration and rehearsal skills
- Stagecraft, audience engagement and live performance techniques
- Creative problem-solving and critical evaluation
- Project planning, management and independent working
- Professional communication and working practices
- Research, analysis and reflective practice
- Development of a professional performance portfolio and artistic identity
- Understanding of industry practices, including live performance, studio work and emerging technologies
Pearson Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Music Performance.
Assessment is carried out through a range of practical and coursework-based assignments set and assessed by the college. These include live performances, compositions, portfolio work, written evaluations, presentations and responses to industry-style briefs.
Students are assessed on their ability to apply performance, technical and professional skills, including rehearsal and performance practice, project development, critical evaluation and communication.
There are no formal written examinations.
On successful completion of the Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND), students can progress directly into employment within the music and creative industries, or onto Level 6 study such as a BA (Hons) or BMus (Hons) in Music Performance or related disciplines. Many universities offer advanced entry into the second or third year of a degree.
The course prepares students for a range of careers including professional performer, session musician, live performer, band member, composer, musical director and music educator.
Typical starting salaries in the sector are approximately £18,000–£25,000, with experienced professionals earning £30,000+ depending on role, portfolio and freelance success.
UCAS code: MP02
Student Loans Company code: 1019176
Costs/ trips
Students are expected to cover the cost of any trips and visits. The purchase of a personal laptop is strongly encouraged to support independent study and music production work.
Apply through UCAS
If you would like to apply to more than one institution, then you can ‘Apply through UCAS’ (coming soon)
Otherwise, click on ‘Apply Now‘ to apply directly to us.
Stuck on how to apply to UCAS? Find out more with the UCAS application guide.
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Funding Information
You could be eligible to take out a loan to cover the cost of your tuition fees.
Click on the link below to find out more about the financial support available for our Higher Education courses.
Financial Support for Higher EducationIf you decide to pay for your course yourself, we also offer an affordable Direct Debit instalments option to help spread the cost of tuition fees (terms apply).
Additional Learning Support
If you have a specific learning difficulty or disability, are deaf or hearing impaired, our Additional Learning Support team are on hand to give you assistance whenever you need it. Email: ALSteam@bedford.ac.uk or call us on 01234 291333.
Financial Support
For information regarding financial support, please visit the Financial Support section to see the support you may be entitled to apply for.
Accessibility
We have access arrangements in place to help students with disabilities or any other particular needs. Call us on 01234 291000 or 01536 413123 for more information.
Any questions?
If you would like to find out more about this or other courses, please use our Livechat below, email info@bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk or call us on 0345 658 8990.