City of Bristol College is delighted to announce an innovative new collaboration with Bristol Beacon to deliver two innovative Music Performance and Production courses from September 2026. The partnership will give students access to the Beacon’s state-of-the-art studios while continuing to benefit from expert teaching and support at the college’s College Green Centre.
The project marks a major step forward in practical music education in the city. Students will study across both sites, gaining first-hand experience inside one of Bristol’s most celebrated cultural venues.
Bristol Beacon’s transformation over recent years has solidified it as a world-class hub for performance, recording and music education; offering accessible design, outstanding acoustics and a vibrant connection to the city’s live music scene.
Applications are now open for the UAL Level 2 Diploma in Music Performance and Production and the UAL Level 3 Diploma in Music Performance and Production.
Both courses are designed for learners who thrive through practical, immersive study.
At Bristol Beacon, students will make full use of the venue’s dedicated education suite, including a professional recording studio, practice rooms, Mac suite and creative cubicles. Collaboration, theory sessions and wider project work will take place at the college’s College Green Centre, ensuring that students develop a balance of technical skill, creative confidence and academic understanding.
Across both levels, students will also explore how emerging technologies, including AI-assisted creativity and workflow tools, can support innovative music production.
Alongside this, sustainable approaches to recording and live production will help learners develop responsible, future-focused creative practices.
Level 2 – Building strong foundations
The UAL Level 2 Diploma in Music Performance and Production is aimed at aspiring performers and producers who want to build a practical grounding in music creation and studio craft. Learners will develop skills in performance and rehearsal, recording and mixing, composition, critical listening and music industry practice.
The course is assessed through a portfolio, culminating in a collaborative Final Major Project that brings together everything that students have learned.
Level 3 – Taking your artistry to the next stage
The UAL Level 3 Diploma in Music Performance and Production is suited to committed musicians, producers and creators who are ready to deepen their skills and prepare for Higher Education or a professional music career.
Students will develop advanced musicianship and production techniques, explore composition and arranging in greater depth and undertake major collaborative and independent projects. They will also receive insight into a range of industry practices, benefiting from extensive studio time and masterclasses at Bristol Beacon. Applicants for the Level 3 course should be comfortable reading music.
This creative collaboration places students at the heart of Bristol’s thriving music ecosystem. By learning in a professional venue known for its diverse programming and commitment to education, City of Bristol College students will gain unparalleled access to real-world environments, experiences and networks.
With both courses set to launch in September 2026, City of Bristol College is now welcoming applications for these cutting-edge courses.
