RSL Awards Ltd · RQF Level 3
RSL Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma for Music Practitioners
You don’t just earn this. You learn to use it, one-to-one, on your own real work.
- LevelRQF Level 3
- Total credits90
- Guided learning540 hours
- Units in this qualification79
Awarded by RSL Awards Ltd · on the Ofqual register
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What you’ll learn
What each unit actually teaches you to do
RSL Awards have a complete portfolio of Vocational Qualifications, covering Music, Performing Arts and Creative Digital Media from Levels 1-5.
These are the units RSL Awards Ltd registers against this qualification. It is a catalogue, not a syllabus. Which of them you take depends on the combination the qualification requires, and that is set by the awarding body rather than by us. Every unit here is regulated, and every one you earn is yours to keep.
Analogue Synthesis Software BasedReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll understand the principles of subtractive synthesis and how virtual analogue synthesizers emulate analogue circuits. The unit develops skills in creating and evaluating sound patches using software-based synthesizers.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamental principles of subtractive synthesis and how it operates within virtual analogue synthesizers.
- Demonstrate the skills required to create sound patches using virtual analogue synthesizers.
- Evaluate the sonic characteristics and effectiveness of created patches in relation to the intended sound design.
Arranging Music - ApplicationsReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll demonstrate skills in arranging music for different ensembles and styles according to specific briefs. The unit includes the use of appropriate instrumentation and voicing, as well as evaluation of arrangement effectiveness and personal skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills to arrange a piece of music for different applications, according to specific briefs
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the musical arrangement in relation to the brief
- Assess personal skill development in music arrangement throughout the process
Auditioning For MusicReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll gain the skills necessary to audition effectively for specific music roles, demonstrating appropriate posture, technical proficiency, and expressive performance. The unit also covers responding to feedback and reflecting on strengths and areas for development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills required to audition effectively for a specific music role
- Identify personal strengths demonstrated during the audition process
- Recognise areas for personal development based on the audition experience
Careers In MusicReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll plan for a career in a chosen area of the music profession by identifying required knowledge and skills, setting realistic goals, and recognising networking and professional development opportunities to support future engagement within the industry.
What you'll be able to do
- Plan effectively to develop a range of knowledge and skills relevant to a chosen area within the music profession
- Identify resources and opportunities to support future engagement with the music profession, such as networking, training and mentorship
Choreographing Popular MusicReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll develop choreographic skills specific to popular music, creating and directing dance sequences using choreographic devices and appropriate dance styles. The unit also covers effective communication and self-reflection on choreographic potential.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate choreographic skills in relation to dance within a popular music idiom.
- Demonstrate the ability to direct a choreographed dance piece.
- Recognise their own potential to create choreography for popular music.
Composing LyricsReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll develop skills in composing lyrics tailored to specific outcomes, considering target audience and musical style. The unit covers the use of rhyme, rhythm, and metre, adaptation of lyrical content, and self-assessment of lyric writing abilities.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills to write lyrics for specific outcomes, considering target audience and musical style
- Assess own skill development as a lyric writer, identifying areas for improvement and future learning
Composing Music - CollaborationReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit focuses on collabourative composition, enabling learners to work with others to create original music for performance or recording. You'll contribute ideas, communicate effectively, and evaluate the collabourative process and outcomes.
What you'll be able to do
- Collaborate with a second writer to compose a set of original music
- Ensure the composed music is suitable for performance or recording
- Evaluate the results of the collaborative composition process
- Evaluate own skill development in collaborative music composition
Composing Music - SoloReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll compose original music for a solo instrument or voice, demonstrating technical proficiency and creative use of melody, harmony, and rhythm. They will present finished compositions and evaluate their work and personal skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Compose a set of finished, original music demonstrating creativity and technical skill.
- Evaluate the results of the composed music, identifying strengths and weaknesses in the composition.
- Evaluate their own skill development throughout the composition process, recognising areas for improvement and future learning.
Composing Music - StylesReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
It teaches you to compose original musical works in defined styles, applying appropriate instrumentation and arrangement techniques. You'll evaluate their compositions for effectiveness, technical quality, and creativity, reflecting on their skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate skills to create finished musical works in defined styles
- Evaluate the results of the created musical works
- Evaluate own skill development in composing music in defined styles
Composing for Adverts and TVReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll develop technical and creative skills to compose music for advertising and television, using relevant software and hardware. The unit covers creating music in diverse styles and formats, evoking specific moods, and evaluating both the results and personal skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the technical skills required to compose music suitable for advertising and TV.
- Demonstrate the creative skills required to compose music suitable for advertising and TV.
- Create original musical compositions for specific advertising or TV briefs.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of their musical compositions in relation to the given advertising or TV brief.
- Evaluate their own skill development throughout the composing process, identifying areas for improvement.
Composing for Film and DocumentaryReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
It teaches you to compose original music for film and documentary, working to briefs and integrating music with visual elements using appropriate instrumentation and arrangement techniques. You'll evaluate the effectiveness of their compositions and reflect on their skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills to create music for a film or documentary application
- Evaluate the success of the music created for the film or documentary
- Evaluate their own skill development in composing for film and documentary
Composing for Interactive MediaReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll learn to compose original music for interactive media, applying musical elements and sound design techniques. The unit includes critical evaluation of the effectiveness of compositions and personal skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills required to create music for interactive media projects.
- Evaluate the results of music created for interactive media.
- Evaluate their own skill development in composing for interactive media.
Contextualising MusicReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
It teaches you to demonstrate contextual knowledge of music by identifying historical, cultural, social, and economic influences on a musical style, explaining its evolution, and applying this knowledge to performance or creation.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate contextual knowledge in relation to different styles of music
Contracts In The Music IndustryReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit covers the role and application of contracts within the UK music industry, including types of contracts and their key elements. You'll analyse how contracts protect intellectual property and define roles and responsibilities.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the role of contracts within the UK music industry
- Understand the application of contracts within the UK music industry
- Analyse the use of contracts in a range of contexts within the UK music industry
Copyright In The Music IndustryReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit provides learners with an understanding of UK music copyright law, including its purpose, key elements, and duration. You'll apply copyright principles to their own musical works and creative outputs, recognising the rights of copyright holders.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of music copyright law in the UK.
- Explain how music copyright applies to their own original musical works.
- Explain how music copyright applies to their associated creative output, such as recordings and performances.
- Identify the rights held by copyright owners in the music industry.
- Understand the implications of copyright infringement and the importance of obtaining necessary licences.
Creating a Sample LibraryReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit provides learners with knowledge of copyright and legal issues related to sample libraries. You'll demonstrate skills to create an original sample library and critically evaluate both the product and their own development.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand copyright considerations in relation to sample libraries
- Understand legal considerations in relation to sample libraries
- Demonstrate the skills required to create an original sample library
- Evaluate the results of creating an original sample library
- Evaluate own skill development in creating an original sample library
Dance for MusiciansReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll understand the importance of fitness and technical development for dancers performing to popular music. The unit covers components of fitness, training methods, nutrition, posture, alignment, and the demonstration of relevant dance skills.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the importance of fitness for a dancer
- Understand the importance of technical development for a dancer
- Demonstrate dance skills in popular music
Development of Music Recording TechnologyReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit requires learners to research and evaluate the historical development of music recording technology from acoustic to digital media. You'll analyse and compare digital and analogue recording methods, assessing their characteristics and current applications.
What you'll be able to do
- Research and evaluate the historical development of recording media
- Analyse, evaluate and compare digital and analogue recording mediums
- Assess current usage of digital and analogue recording mediums
Development of Sound SourcesReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit provides learners with an understanding of the technological advancements in sampling and synthesis, tracing their historical development and key contributors. You'll evaluate the use of samplers and synthesisers within popular music production.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the main technological developments underpinning the evolution of sampling
- Understand the main technological developments underpinning the evolution of synthesis
- Evaluate the use of samplers in popular music
- Evaluate the use of synthesisers in popular music
Digital Recording and ProductionReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit develops learners' skills in planning and executing digital recording sessions using digital audio workstations or recorders. You'll record, edit, and evaluate musical sound sources to produce completed audio recordings.
What you'll be able to do
- Propose a plan for a digital recording session
- Plan the activities required for a digital recording session
- Prepare the resources needed for a digital recording session
- Use a digital audio workstation to record musical sound sources
- Use an audio recorder to record musical sound sources
- Demonstrate skills to edit recorded works to create audio recordings
- Consider the success of the created audio recordings
Digital SynthesisReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit introduces learners to the principles of digital synthesis, including digital signal processing and synthesis techniques. You'll create and manipulate patches, evaluating the sonic outcomes of their work.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the fundamental principles of digital synthesis
- Demonstrate the skills to create patches using digital synthesis techniques
- Evaluate the results of creating patches using digital synthesis
Evolution of the Record IndustryReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit provides learners with knowledge of the historical development of the UK recording industry, major record labels, and technological advancements. You'll analyse social, economic, and cultural influences on the industry.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the development of the UK recording industry.
Getting Work In MusicReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll establish strategies to generate sustainable income in the UK music industry by identifying income streams, researching and evaluating strategies, and developing a practical income generation plan.
What you'll be able to do
- Establish strategies for generating sustainable income in the UK music industry
Improving Instrumental PerformanceReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
It teaches you to critique their instrument and equipment regarding condition, suitability, and safe operation, develop instrument-specific techniques appropriate to Level 3 performance, and review progress in instrumental skills.
What you'll be able to do
- Critique own instrument and associated equipment with regard to effective and safe operation
- Evaluate the current selection of own instrument and associated equipment in relation to future personal development
- Understand how to develop instrument-specific technique appropriate to performance at Level 3
- Review progress in instrumental techniques and identify strengths and areas for development
Lead PerformerReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll develop stagecraft skills as lead performers, demonstrating stage presence, vocal or instrumental technique, audience engagement, and musical interpretation, alongside evaluating their suitability for the role.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate stagecraft skills in the role of a lead performer in a specific musical performance
- Evaluate their own suitability to the role of a lead performer
Leading a Music-Making ActivityReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit develops learners' ability to lead music-making activities by demonstrating effective communication and musical skills, managing sessions safely and inclusively, and adapting activities to participant needs. You'll evaluate the success of their leadership and identify areas for further development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills required to lead a music-making activity effectively
- Evaluate the success of a led music-making activity, identifying strengths and areas for improvement
- Assess own skills in leading music-making activities, identifying areas requiring further development
Lighting for Music EventsReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll learn to plan and programme lighting designs for music events, considering elements such as colour, intensity, movement, and venue characteristics. The unit includes evaluation of lighting effectiveness and reflection on personal skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the ability to plan a lighting design for a specified music event, considering factors such as venue, music style, and desired atmosphere.
- Demonstrate the ability to programme lighting fixtures and control systems to execute the planned lighting design.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the lighting design in enhancing the music event experience.
- Reflect on personal skill development in lighting design and programming, identifying areas for further improvement.
Listening to MusicReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll recognise key musical elements and their interaction to create structure and meaning, analysing how these elements elicit personal emotional responses to music.
What you'll be able to do
- Recognise the relationship between key elements in music
- Recognise the personal responses elicited by key elements in music
Live Music PerformanceReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll learn to perform a set of music in a live environment, demonstrating musicality, stage presence, and technical accuracy in intonation, rhythm, and tempo. The unit also involves self-evaluation to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills required to perform a set of music in a specific live environment, showcasing musicality and stage presence.
- Identify strengths in their live music performance, recognising aspects of their performance that were particularly effective.
- Identify areas requiring development in their live music performance, outlining specific skills or techniques that need improvement.
Live Sound Engineering: FOHReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit equips learners with the skills to safely set up and operate a professional Front of House PA system for live events, including gain structure, equalisation, effects processing, and fault-finding. You'll evaluate system performance and reflect on their own development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the correct and safe use of a professional, performance-level Front of House PA system for a specified event
- Evaluate the results of using a Front of House PA system for a specified event
- Evaluate own skill development in the use of a Front of House PA system
Live Sound Engineering: MonitorsReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit develops learners' skills in safely setting up and operating professional monitor systems for live events. You'll communicate effectively with performers to create suitable monitor mixes and evaluate the clarity, tonal balance, and overall effectiveness of the mixes.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the correct and safe use of a professional, performance-level monitor system for a specified event
- Evaluate the results of using a monitor system for a specified event
- Evaluate own skill development in the use of a monitor system
Live Sound RecordingReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll plan and execute live sound recording sessions, including equipment setup, microphone placement, and level optimisation. The unit also covers operation of audio recorders and evaluation of the recording process and results.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate how to effectively plan a live sound recording session.
- Demonstrate how to use an audio recorder to capture a live music performance.
- Evaluate the live recording process, identifying strengths and weaknesses.
- Analyse the recorded audio, identifying areas for improvement.
Music Arrangement - OrchestrationReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll develop skills in arranging and orchestrating music for ensembles by applying arrangement and orchestration techniques, adapting for different ensemble sizes, creating musical textures, and evaluating outcomes and personal progress.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills required to arrange music for ensembles
- Demonstrate the skills required to orchestrate music for ensembles
- Evaluate the results of music arrangement and orchestration
- Evaluate their own skill development in music arrangement and orchestration
Music Artist and The MediaReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
It teaches you to evaluate the role of various media platforms in promoting music artists, analysing the reach and effectiveness of social and traditional media. You'll compare the advantages and disadvantages of different media platforms and assess the impact of media coverage on public perception and career development.
What you'll be able to do
- Evaluate the role of different media platforms in the promotion of a music artist or producer, considering their reach and effectiveness
- Analyse the impact of media coverage on the public perception and career trajectory of a music artist or producer
Music DissertationReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit guides learners through producing a music dissertation by defining a research question, explaining research methodology, analysing evidence, presenting a reasoned argument, and evaluating findings to objectively answer a music-related question.
What you'll be able to do
- Produce a dissertation project which objectively answers a chosen music-related question.
Music Event Health & SafetyReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit provides learners with an understanding of health and safety legislation and procedures relevant to music events. You'll identify hazards, manage risks, and implement safety measures to protect organisers, staff, and attendees.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand relevant health and safety policies applicable to music events.
- Understand health and safety procedures in relation to the management of a safe music event.
Music Event ManagementReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll contribute to the planning and management of musical events by developing event plans, managing risks, creating marketing materials, and demonstrating effective teamwork in a managerial capacity.
What you'll be able to do
- Contribute effectively to the planning of a musical event or series of events
- Work collaboratively as part of a team in a managerial capacity to run a musical event or series of events
Music ImprovisationReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll develop the ability to improvise music within specific styles, demonstrating techniques such as melodic and rhythmic variation and responding to musical cues. The unit emphasises awareness of the harmonic, rhythmic, and stylistic context of improvisation.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the ability to improvise in music
- Display awareness of the context of the improvisation when improvising in music
Music Instrument DevelopmentReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll analyse the historical development and cultural significance of a chosen musical instrument within popular music. The unit explores the instrument's origins, factors contributing to its popularity, and its role in shaping specific musical genres.
What you'll be able to do
- Analyse the development of a musical instrument in popular music
- Analyse the cultural significance of a musical instrument in popular music
Music ManagementReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
It teaches you to understand the roles and responsibilities in managing music projects or artists, including key roles, responsibilities, and project stages, and to apply this knowledge to a chosen project.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the roles and responsibilities involved in managing a music project
- Understand the roles and responsibilities involved in managing a music artist
- Apply the findings of music management roles and responsibilities to a project of their choice
Music MarketingReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll understand the role and processes of marketing within the UK music industry, including marketing functions, channels, and plan development. The unit covers the importance of marketing for musicians and music businesses.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the role of marketing in the UK music industry
- Understand the processes of marketing in the UK music industry.
Music Performance to CameraReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit develops learners' skills to perform effectively in music video productions, focusing on posture, movement, facial expression, and body language. You'll perform musical pieces expressively, adapt their style to various genres, and identify personal strengths and areas for improvement.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the required skills to perform effectively in a music video production
- Identify personal strengths in music video performance
- Recognise areas requiring further development to improve music video performance skills
Music Press And JournalismReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit develops learners' journalistic skills related to music, including analysis of different journalistic styles and production of reviews, press releases, and feature articles. You'll critically evaluate journalistic approaches and create original content.
What you'll be able to do
- Develop journalistic skills by reviewing a range of journalistic output
- Develop journalistic skills by creating a range of journalistic output.
Music PromotionReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit provides learners with knowledge of product promotion within the UK music industry, enabling them to define, explain, identify, and apply various promotion techniques across different contexts.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the concept of product promotion within the UK music industry
- Apply product promotion techniques in a variety of contexts within the UK music industry
Music PublishingReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll gain a comprehensive understanding of music publishing, covering various publishing agreements, the role of Performing Rights Organisations, and the licences required. The unit also explores how royalties are generated and distributed within the music publishing sector.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the various means by which music can be published
- Understand the associated ways in which revenue might be generated from music publishing
Music Rehearsal SkillsReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit develops learners' skills to rehearse effectively for music performances, focusing on communication, following musical direction, and constructive contribution. You'll also identify personal strengths and areas for development in musicianship during rehearsals.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills required to rehearse effectively for a specific music performance
- Identify personal strengths and areas for development in music rehearsal skills
Music Sequencing and ProductionReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
It teaches you to use digital audio workstation software to create, arrange, mix, and master music projects. You'll evaluate the sound quality of their work and identify strengths and areas for improvement in their production skills.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the use of digital audio workstation software to create a project file
- Evaluate the results of using digital audio workstation software, identifying strengths and areas for development
Music Sequencing and Production - MediaReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit equips learners to prepare media project files within a Digital Audio Workstation for film or video audio production. You'll synchronise audio with visual elements, manage project settings, and evaluate the effectiveness of their audio integration.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the ability to correctly prepare a media project file within a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) for audio post-production.
- Demonstrate the ability to use digital audio workstation software to create and integrate audio elements for a film or video project.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of the created audio in enhancing the overall impact and narrative of the film/video project.
Music Stage ManagementReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit develops learners' practical skills in stage managing music events, including effective communication with performers and crew, managing stage setups, ensuring safety, and coordinating technical aspects such as sound and lighting. You'll also evaluate event outcomes and reflect on their own skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills required to stage manage a specified music event
- Evaluate the results of the stage management of the music event
- Evaluate their own skill development in music stage management
Music Video ProductionReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll learn to plan and produce music videos, covering production stages, team roles, concept development, and technical aspects such as camera operation and editing. The unit emphasises working to a brief and project management.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills to plan effectively for video production
- Demonstrate the skills to produce a music video to a brief.
Musical DirectorReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit provides learners with knowledge of the responsibilities and skills required of a musical director across various performance contexts. You'll demonstrate directing skills, including rehearsing and conducting, while understanding relevant legal and ethical considerations.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the requirements of the role of a musical director
- Demonstrate the skills required to direct a musical performance
- Understand personal suitability for the role of musical director
Practical Harmony Application - PedalsReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll understand the harmonic principles and functions of pedal tones and apply these in practical musical contexts. The unit involves evaluating the use of pedal tones and reflecting on personal skill development in harmony application.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the harmonic principles and functions of pedal tones
- Apply the harmonic principles and functions of pedal tones in a practical context
- Evaluate the results of applying pedal tones
- Evaluate their own skill development in applying pedal tones
Practical Harmony Application Chord SubstitutionReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit covers the principles of chord substitution in harmony, including diatonic and non-diatonic techniques. You'll apply these concepts to compositional ideas and evaluate the harmonic effects and their own skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of chord substitution in music theory.
- Apply chord substitution techniques to compositional ideas.
- Evaluate the results of chord substitutions in terms of their musical effect.
- Evaluate own skill development in applying chord substitution techniques.
Practical Harmony Application Chords and ProgressionsReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll develop an understanding of harmony through the construction and function of extended and altered chords derived from major and harmonic minor scales. The unit also covers modal chord progressions and their application within musical contexts.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand aspects of harmony using extended chords built from the major and harmonic minor scales
- Understand aspects of altered chords built from the major and harmonic minor scales
- Understand aspects of modal chord progressions and their usage
Practical MusicianshipReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll develop practical musicianship skills by listening, internalising, reproducing, and communicating musical elements and ideas, including analysis, memorisation, and performance of musical passages.
What you'll be able to do
- Listen attentively to musical elements and ideas
- Internalise musical elements and ideas effectively
- Reproduce musical elements and ideas accurately
- Communicate musical elements and ideas to others clearly
- Present musical elements and ideas in an appropriate format
Radio/Podcast ProductionReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit equips learners with skills to plan, record, and produce radio programmes or podcasts, including audience identification and content structuring. You'll demonstrate proficiency in recording techniques and evaluate the success of their audio productions.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the ability to plan and prepare for the creation of a radio programme or podcast.
- Demonstrate the skills required to record audio content for a radio programme or podcast.
- Demonstrate the skills required to edit audio content for a radio programme or podcast.
- Evaluate the success of a radio programme or podcast based on pre-defined criteria.
Recorded Music PerformanceReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit develops learners' skills to perform music in a recording studio, demonstrating microphone techniques, musical accuracy, expression, collabouration, and identifying strengths and areas for further development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills required to perform music effectively in a recording studio environment
- Identify personal strengths in recorded music performance
- Identify areas requiring further development in recorded music performance
Remixing & ProductionReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll learn to create remixes using audio production techniques such as sample selection, manipulation, arrangement, mixing, and mastering. The unit includes evaluation of the remix and reflection on personal skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills to create remixes of a given song using audio production processes.
- Evaluate the results of the remixing process.
- Evaluate their own skill development in remixing and audio production.
Revenue Flow In The Music IndustryReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll understand the flow of revenue within the UK music industry, identifying income sources for artists, publishers, and record labels. The unit analyses the impact of digital platforms and streaming services on revenue generation and stakeholders' earnings.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the various sources of revenue within the UK music industry.
- Describe the flow of revenue from consumers to artists and other stakeholders in the music industry.
- Identify their own potential place and role within the revenue flow of the UK music industry.
- Analyse the impact of digital platforms and streaming services on revenue generation in the music industry.
Royalties And MusicReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll understand the roles of collection societies, record labels, and publishers in collecting and distributing royalties within the UK music industry. The unit covers the processes involved and the types of royalties managed by these entities.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the role of collection societies in the collation and distribution of royalties in the UK music industry
- Understand the role of record labels in the collation and distribution of royalties in the UK music industry
- Understand the role of music publishers in the collation and distribution of royalties in the UK music industry
Selling Recorded MusicReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit provides learners with knowledge of methods for releasing recorded music to the public, including distribution channels and promotional strategies. You'll analyse associated revenue streams and the advantages and disadvantages of different release methods.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the various means by which recorded music can be released to the public
- Understand the associated ways in which revenue might be generated by releasing music
- Understand the associated ways in which promotion might be generated by releasing music
Session MusicianReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll develop skills required to operate as session musicians, including sight-reading, performing in various styles, improvisation, collabouration, and evaluating their suitability for the role.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills required to operate effectively as a session musician
- Evaluate personal suitability for the role of a session musician
Setting Up a Music BusinessReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
It teaches you to identify their entrepreneurial skills, assess strengths and weaknesses, generate a viable music business idea, define the target market, and develop a supporting rationale.
What you'll be able to do
- Identify their own abilities as entrepreneurs
- Create a music business idea
- Develop a supporting rationale for the business idea
Sound ReinforcementReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll develop the ability to set up and configure performance-level sound reinforcement systems, including loudspeaker placement and signal processing. The unit also encourages reflection on personal development within sound reinforcement installation and operation.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the correct procedures for setting up a performance-level PA system, ensuring optimal sound quality and coverage.
- Understand the importance of personal development in relation to the installation and maintenance of sound reinforcement equipment.
- Reflect on personal skills and identify areas for improvement in the context of sound reinforcement installation.
Studio Audio MasteringReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit equips learners with mastering skills to finalise music mixes using techniques such as equalisation, compression, stereo imaging, and limiting. You'll apply industry-standard loudness targets to create audio products suitable for various playback systems.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills required to master music mixes using appropriate techniques
- Apply mastering techniques to create a final music product that meets industry standards
Studio Sound MixingReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll learn to manage a studio mixing session, including preparing the studio environment, applying audio mixing techniques such as equalisation and compression, and communicating effectively with musicians and personnel. The unit also encourages reflection on personal development in mixing practice.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate how to manage a studio mixing session
- Apply audio mixing skills during a studio session
- Recognise areas for personal development in studio sound mixing
Studio Sound RecordingReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit equips learners to plan and prepare for studio recording sessions, operate recording equipment, produce recordings, and evaluate both the results and their own skill development.
What you'll be able to do
- Plan and prepare for a studio sound recording session, considering all necessary equipment and resources.
- Produce a studio recording, utilising appropriate recording techniques and equipment.
- Evaluate the quality of the studio recording, identifying areas for improvement.
- Evaluate own skill development in studio sound recording techniques.
Understanding Live Sound DesignReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll analyse live sound design principles by examining acoustic properties of event environments, technical requirements of sound reinforcement, and environmental impacts, determining appropriate equipment and applications.
What you'll be able to do
- Analyse the relationship between variations in live event environments and sound reinforcement application
- Analyse the technical requirements of sound reinforcement application
- Consider the wider implications of providing sound reinforcement
Understanding Musical InfluencesReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
It teaches you to understand the role of musical influence in the creation of new music by analysing contributing factors and recognising examples across genres. You'll evaluate how musical influences shape the development of new works.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the significance of musical influence in shaping the creation of new musical works.
- Recognise examples of musical influence across different genres and historical periods.
- Analyse how specific musical influences have impacted the development of particular artists or musical styles.
Understanding Musical StylesReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll explore the development and interaction of musical styles and sub-styles, analysing their key characteristics and historical contexts. The unit also covers influential figures and the wider social and historical factors shaping these styles.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the development of different musical styles
- Understand the interaction of musical styles and associated sub-styles
- Understand the wider historical contexts relating to different styles of music
- Understand the wider social contexts relating to different styles of music
Understanding Recording Studio DesignReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll gain knowledge of recording studio design principles, including acoustics, layout, and technical requirements. The unit also covers essential studio equipment and explores business aspects such as marketing and financial management.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the basic principles of recording studio design, including acoustics and layout
- Understand the technical requirements of current recording studios, including equipment and software
- Understand the business aspects of recording studio operation, including marketing and finance
Understanding Recording TechniquesReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll gain an understanding of acoustic principles, microphone operation, and the effects of compression, gating, and equalisation on recorded audio. The unit supports application of this knowledge to identify and address recording challenges.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand basic acoustic principles related to sound recording.
- Understand the technical operation of different types of microphones.
- Understand how compression can affect a recorded signal.
- Understand how gating can affect a recorded signal.
- Understand how EQ (equalisation) can affect a recorded signal.
Using Dynamic ProcessorsReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll gain knowledge of dynamic processors including compressors, limiters, gates, and expanders, understanding their principles and parametres. The unit develops practical skills to apply these processors effectively to recorded sounds to achieve desired audio effects.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the function and operation of different types of dynamic processors, including compressors, limiters, gates and expanders
- Demonstrate the skills required to use dynamic processors effectively to process recorded sounds, achieving desired sonic results
Using Equalisation & FiltersReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll understand the principles of equalisation and filtering in sound engineering, including frequency spectrum, types of equalisation and filters, and apply corrective techniques to recorded sounds.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the principles of sound in relation to equalisation
- Understand the principles of sound in relation to filtering
- Demonstrate the skills to apply corrective equalisation to recorded sounds
- Demonstrate the skills to apply filtering to recorded sounds
Using Multi-EffectsReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll understand the functions and parametres of audio effects units and demonstrate practical skills in using multi-effects to shape sound. The unit covers the application of effects in music production and performance contexts.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the function of various audio effects units.
- Understand the purpose of different audio effects in music production and performance.
- Identify the key parameters of common audio effects.
- Demonstrate the skills required to effectively use multi-effects units in a practical context.
Using a DAW - ResearchReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
It teaches you to evaluate the use of Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) in music production by analysing core features, strengths, and limitations. You'll assess DAW compatibility with audio interfaces, plugins, and hardware controllers in relation to production tasks.
What you'll be able to do
- Evaluate the capabilities and limitations of a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) in the context of music production.
- Analyse the impact of DAW features and functionalities on the creative process and final product of a musical piece.
- Assess the overall effectiveness of using a DAW for the production of a specific piece of music, considering factors such as workflow, sound quality, and creative possibilities.
Using a DAW AnalysisReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit provides learners with an understanding of digital audio workstation (DAW) hardware and software components, including signal flow, functions, plugins, and file formats, enabling effective analysis and utilisation of DAW systems.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand the operation of digital audio workstation hardware
- Understand the operation of digital audio workstation software
Using a Keyboard with a DAWReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
You'll understand how to configure keyboard controllers with Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and use them to input and manipulate music in real time. The unit includes practical skills in recording MIDI data and evaluating performance.
What you'll be able to do
- Understand how to configure a keyboard controller with a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW).
- Use a keyboard to input music in real time into a DAW.
- Evaluate the results of using a keyboard with a DAW.
- Evaluate their own skill development in using a keyboard with a DAW.
Working as a Freelance Music PractitionerReal unit · RSL Awards Ltd
This unit equips learners with skills to manage a freelance music career, focusing on time management, financial administration, client communication, and legal compliance. You'll also evaluate their personal suitability for freelance work based on their strengths and career objectives.
What you'll be able to do
- Demonstrate the skills to manage a music-related portfolio career, including financial and administrative aspects
- Understand personal suitability for working as a freelance music practitioner, considering strengths, weaknesses and career goals
The honest bit
You’ve started things before
Most courses were built for a room full of people who aren’t you. A cohort moves on whether or not your week allowed it, and by the third week the thing you’re behind on becomes the reason you stop opening it.
There’s no cohort here, and no timetable to fall behind. Before anything starts, Zavmo asks when you’re sharpest and how long you can realistically sit down for, then builds the sessions around those answers. A bad fortnight changes your pace. It doesn’t put you behind.
And you only pay once you start learning. Searching and planning are free, and you can cancel any time — so the cost of finding out is an afternoon, not a year.
Your passport
Every credit is a stamp you keep
Level 3 credits are regulated. They don’t vanish when a subscription ends or a website closes. They travel to any employer, and Zavmo keeps the map of what you’ve earned and what’s next.
Analogue Synthesis Software BasedArranging Music - ApplicationsAuditioning For MusicCareers In MusicChoreographing Popular MusicComposing LyricsComposing Music - CollaborationComposing Music - Solo
Each stamp is a real unit registered against this qualification.
Who’d teach you this
The Evidence Evaluator
Assessor
Helps you show what you can actually do, gathering the evidence that proves it as you learn.
Meet all twelve tutorsWhere this connects
Where these credits take you
A qualification is never a dead end here. See the jobs its credits open, the national occupational standards its units map to, and the future skills they quietly build.
RSL Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma for Music Practitioners
- Compose music collaboratively
- Create music for games and interactive media projects
- Evaluate the success of radio and audio productions
- Evaluate the success of radio and audio productions, programming and projects
Where this can lead
Music Rights Lawyer
Your journey with us isn't just about this one role; it's about building a fulfilling and impactful career in music law. We're committed to supporting your growth every step of the way, whether that's through formal training, mentorship, or simply giving you the challenging work that helps you learn and excel. We want you to be here for the long haul.
See the whole journey →Opens the roleMusic Rights LawyerOne of the jobs this qualification is a route intoSee the role →Opens the roleAssociate Music Rights CoordinatorOne of the jobs this qualification is a route intoSee the role →Opens the roleSenior Music Rights LawyerOne of the jobs this qualification is a route into · 1 near-identical record folded inSee the role →Future FluencyAll ten future skillsSee how every unit is contextualised by the tenExplore →
Showing 3 roles, drawn from 4 job records mapped to this qualification.
Skills it covers
What the job actually needs. These are the standards the units are built against, in the words employers and awarding bodies already use for the work itself.
Compose music collaborativelyCreate music for games and interactive media projectsEvaluate the success of radio and audio productionsEvaluate the success of radio and audio productions, programming and projects
How you’ll actually learn this
One-to-one, on your own real work
A qualification is usually something done to you: sit the class, sit the exam, hope it sticks. Here it’s the opposite. You learn it one-to-one with a companion, on your own real work, and you keep going until you can use it, not just recall it.
One-to-one, on your real workNo lectures, no past-papers. Every unit is practised on the actual tasks your job throws at you, a tutor beside you, not a video in front of you.
Taught to the top, not the testMost courses stop at remembering. Your companion keeps climbing: analysing, judging, creating. That’s the part a machine can’t do for you.
Credits you keep, a map that continuesEvery unit is regulated and yours for good. The day you finish, Zavmo already knows the next role your new credits open.
Applied to your work in any of these jobs
Which job do you mean?
Learners will understand the principles of subtractive synthesis and how virtual analogue synthesizers emulate analogue circuits. The unit develops skills in creating and evaluating sound patches using software-based synthesizers.
How the thinking builds
- Remember
- Understand
- Apply
- Analyse
- Evaluate
- Create
Built for RSL Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma for Music Practitioners
79 units in this credential, in the order it lists them, awarded by RSL Awards Ltd.
- Analogue Synthesis Software Based
- Arranging Music - Applications
- Auditioning For Music
- Careers In Music
- Choreographing Popular Music
- Composing Lyrics
and 73 more in the full unit list below.
One to one, not one to many
No two people run this the same way
A course is written once and handed to everyone. This is assembled around you, and keeps changing as it learns you. Five things it reads, and what each one changes.
- Your actual work Every unit is taught against a live piece of your own work, not a worked example from a textbook.
- What you already know The first conversation finds your starting point, so you skip what you can already do and spend the time on what you cannot.
- The conditions you learn under Not a learning-styles quiz. The evidence does not support those. The dimensions the research does back, read once and used to shape the plan.
- How far you got last time It picks up mid-thought. The tutor knows what you said, what you struggled with, and what it asked you to try.
- Which tutor suits the moment Twelve of them, each for a different kind of thinking. The one who walks you through a first idea is not the one who stress-tests it.
See how you learn, free. Eight questions, no sign-up. A directional taster; the diagnostic inside Zavmo goes deeper and keeps adapting.
Why it sticks
Most courses stop at remembering
There’s a well-known ladder of how deeply you learn something, called Bloom’s Taxonomy. Most courses get you up the first two rungs: you remember some facts, you pass a test, you forget it. Real skill lives at the top. Judging, deciding, creating. And this isn’t a generic ladder: every rung has a named Zavmo tutor who walks you up it.
- 6CreateThe Creative Catalyst
- 5EvaluateThe Evidence Evaluator
- 4AnalyseThe Analyst
- 3ApplyThe Coach
- 2UnderstandThe Connector
- 1RememberThe Builder
Where most courses leave you Where Zavmo takes you
Why this matters: AI can already remember and understand for you. What it can’t do is
take your real problem and judge the right call. So the only learning worth paying
for is the learning that takes you to the top. That’s exactly what a tutor doing it with
you, on your real work, is for.
The value
Why the companion is worth £70 a month
You’re not paying for the units. They’re regulated, and the same wherever you earn them. You’re paying for the one thing that decides whether you actually get there: a companion that makes them stick, on your real work.
That is one-to-one on this qualification, every day, on the work you already do, for £70 a month. Your first module is free, so you can see the teaching before you pay for any of it. Billed monthly, cancel any time and billing stops.
Earned on your own work, taught to the top.
Everything you just read, learned one-to-one on the job you already do. Your first module is free, so you can see the teaching before you pay for any of it.
Build my plan, freeNo card. See how this qualification maps onto your role and meet the tutors who’d teach it, free. The learning begins when you subscribe. It’s £70 a month, billed monthly. Cancel any time and billing stops.