For domestic students, start your study journey here.
National code: CUA50820 | CRICOS Code: 110849B
Diploma of Music (Performance)
OverviewAbout this course
The Diploma of Music (Performance) is delivered through a comprehensive fusion of practical training and industry expertise. Elevate your talents in performance, music technology, composition and theory and grasp the business acumen vital for freelance musicians.
Guided by seasoned music professionals, you'll be able to tap into TAFE NSW's resources, including an expansive instrument and accessory pool. Delve into stagecraft, repertoire development, composition, and performance technology and acquire pivotal skills, from vocal technique to music arrangement.
With numerous opportunities to perform live at our end-of-term and end-of-semester shows, you'll graduate ready to take on the dynamic landscape of the music industry.
OutcomesWhat you'll gain
Learn new skills
- Develop and provide freelance services
- Manage copyright arrangements
- Build your repertoire as part of a backup group
- Compose and perform musical pieces as a soloist
- Prepare compositions for publishing and performance
- Use interactive technology in performances
Gain practical experience
Build your experience and get practical skills in:
- Instrument and vocal technique
- Recording your song ideas with music production software
- Performing in a group and as a soloist
- Stagecraft skills
- Improving critical listening skills
- Writing and arranging music, using technology
Develop your professional confidence
Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:
- Creativity and critical-thinking skills
- The drive to continuously improve
- Great teamwork skills
- Time management and a professional attitude
- A commitment to the craft of performance, music and composition
Career pathways
This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:
- Recording Artist
- Session Musician
- Session Singer
- Live Performer
- Songwriter or Jingle Writer
- Multimedia Composer
SuitabilityInternational entry requirements
At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.
Academic Requirements:
- Year 12 or equivalent
English Language Requirements:
- Academic IELTS 6.0 (with no individual band less than 5.5) or equivalent
Additional Requirement:
- Submission of video or audio files or attend an audition demonstrating your musical performance ability across two genres of music. The audition will take place via an online video conferencing platform such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
- Complete a CUA30920 Certificate III in Music (Performance)
TAFE NSW makes every effort to ensure your Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) needs are met. The level of support you require may be assessed via a review of your LLN skills with written tasks and a one-on-one interview. If you need to strengthen your LLN skills, an individual training plan will be created with you.
To be prepared for this course, it is recommended that you have:
- Experience playing an instrument, performing as a vocalist and/or composing music or songs
- The curiosity to explore a range of musical 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 a stable internet connection
- Access to music production software, Adobe Creative Cloud and Microsoft Office Suite
If you need help preparing for study, contact us about your options.
Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations
As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimo | Feb, Jul | $12,710 AUD |
| Locations | Starting dates | Course fees |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimo | Feb, Jul | $13,220 AUD |
Additional costs
Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.
Structure and unitsWhat you will study
At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.
4 core units plus 12 elective units, of which: at least 9 must be from the elective units listed below, with no more than 3 of these units from Group F
up to 3 may be from the remaining listed elective units (with the exception of Group F).
Core units are the required units that you must complete.
Manage copyright arrangementsCUACMP511
Provide freelance servicesCUAIND412
Enhance professional practice using creative arts industry knowledgeCUAIND512
Develop and implement own self-care plan in the creative industriesCUAMWB401
PathwaysContinue your studies
At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:
Vocational study pathway
Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
TAFE NSW degree pathway
From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways
TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
Other university pathways
You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.
Keep learning with TAFE NSW
- If you apply for a package of Diploma of Music (Performance) -1 year and Bachelor of Creative Practice specialising in Music Production and Performance then due to credits the the Bachelor duration will be reduced to 2 years. (Package Duration:3 years)
You are able to package two or more TAFE NSW courses together. This means you can plan your studies to achieve your career goals. When you apply for a TAFE NSW vocational pathway, you can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.
ServicesCampus facilities and support services
- TAFE NSW Disability Support Service
- TAFE NSW Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) support
- TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling, and Pathways Service
- Smarthinking – online access to a tutor
- LinkedIn Learning – an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills
We're here to help
If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.
Contact TAFE NSW International