OverviewAbout this course
Gain the confidence and experience you need for success as a recording artist or session musician. Explore your unique sound as you practise performing, composing, producing music and collaborating in bands while establishing your music industry network.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learning outcomes
Through a mixture of theory and practical course work, learn to:
Use Instrument and vocal technique
Record your song ideas with music production software
Perform in a group and as a soloist
Apply stagecraft skills
Improve critical listening skills
Write and arrange music using technology
Course outcomes
Gain practical experience and develop specialist skills that give you an advantage in the job market.
A nationally accredited qualification at Diploma level
Specialist skills and knowledge to continue your music career and take on freelance opportunities
Experience creating and recording music in rehearsal or recording studios
Confidence to perform live and prepare a stage
A network of music industry professionals
A strong pathway to continue your studies and enhance your career opportunities
SuitabilityIs this course right for you?
Entry requirements
This course requires evidence of previous experience or study before you can enrol
That you have completed a Certificate III in Music (Performance) or Certificate IV in Music (Performance) or its equivalent as evidenced by a copy of your transcript or
That you have the music skills and knowledge as evaluated by a teacher-assessed audition or interview. We’ll contact you to discuss requirements of the audition or interview and arrange a suitable time.
Completion requirements
During your study you’ll need to provide your teacher with the following evidence:
Entry recommendations
To be prepared for this course, we recommend that you have:
Experience in playing an instrument, performing as a vocalist and/or composing music or songs
The curiosity to explore a range of music styles.
Some knowledge of music theory, including key signatures and basic notation
Access to your own instrument/s or microphone.
Access to a computer with stable internet connection, Microsoft Office and music production software. If you don't have your own you may access these at a TAFE NSW campus.
The ability to attend and travel to live performances and functions outside of class hours, including on evenings and potentially weekends.
TAFE NSW is committed to meeting the learning needs of every community. Meeting these needs can mean there are additional entry requirements at different campus locations. Check your preferred location for further requirements. If you need help preparing for study, contact us to find out how we can support you.
PathwaysFuture career and study options
Career pathways
Our graduates go onto roles like:
Music Professionals
Music Professionals write, arrange, orchestrate, conduct and perform musical compositions.
Full-time share Full-time workers usually work 35 hours or more a week (in all their jobs combined).
35%
Employment size Employment size is the number of workers who do this as their main job.
4,400 workers
Average age This is the average age of all workers in this job.
42 years
Weekly pay Median earnings are shown for full-time, non-managerial employees paid at the adult rate, before tax or any amounts that are salary sacrificed. These figures are a guide to earnings only and should not be used to determine a wage rate.
$1,310
Average full-time The average full-time hours that people in this role work each week.
45 hours
Skill level rating Skill level ratings are based on the range and complexity of job roles. In general, the higher the skill level, the more formal education and training, previous experience or on-the-job training needed to be good at the job.
Very high
Gender share
26% female
Future growth The Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business estimates the likely change in number of workers in this role, or industry, over the next 5 years. Future growth is the likely percentage change compared to all other job roles.
Strong Growth
Other jobs include: recording artist, session musician, session singer, live performer, songwriter or jingle writer and multimedia composer.
Licensing
There are many career pathways and opportunities to choose from when you graduate from the Diploma of Music (Performance). It’s important to check the licensing, legislative, regulatory and certification requirements relating to your future career by visiting NSW Fair Trading or your state licensing body.
Study pathways
Take your study further with other courses offered at TAFE NSW:
Previous study0 Courses
Begin here to gain experience and confidence in this study area.
The Diploma of Music (Performance) does not have any pre-requisite courses.
Further study0 Courses
Advance your skills to take your career to the next level
The Diploma of Music (Performance) does not have any post-graduate courses.
Related study0 Courses
Strengthen your expertise and gain specialist skills to expand your employability.
The Diploma of Music (Performance) does not have any related courses.
Your experience counts
At TAFE NSW, we recognise your previous study and work experience. You can apply for recognition of prior learning or a credit transfer with any of our courses. If you're successful you'll get your qualification faster.
UnitsUnits taught in this course
Courses are made up of a combination of both core and specialty units. In the Diploma of Music (Performance) qualification, you’ll need to successfully complete 16 units of competency, including 4 core and 12 speciality units.
Please note, not all specialty units are offered at every TAFE NSW location. It is highly recommended that you check with your preferred campus for information about the specialty units offered at that location.
Core units are central to the job outcomes of a particular industry or occupation. These are the units industry has agreed are essential to be capable and qualified at a particular study level.
Develop and implement own self-care plan in the creative industriesCUAMWB401
Provide freelance servicesCUAIND412
Enhance professional practice using creative arts industry knowledgeCUAIND512
Manage copyright arrangementsCUACMP511
TAFE NSW servicesFacilities and support
TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations and online. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the people, resources, counselling and facilities to support you in focusing on your studies.
TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
TAFE NSW Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) support
TAFE NSW Aboriginal Support; Learner support (ABE)
TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling and Pathways Service
TAFE NSW Libraries
Scholarship programs – be supported as you explore your talents and fulfil your potential
Read&Write literacy and study support software is available free for all TAFE NSW students to use while studying on campus and at home
LinkedIn Learning – an online resource which offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
Student associations – get social with our student community
Info sessionsWant to know more?
There are a total of 2 information sessions planned for this course. They'll take place at different locations across the state.
You can select a study option below to see the sessions available. Or you can view all sessions related to