RSL Music Production Syllabus Guide Nov16 PDF

MUSIC
PRODUCTION
SYLLABUS SPECIFICATION
Graded Examinations
in Music Production
Specification
SEPTEMBER 2016
Rockschool | Performance Arts Awards | Vocational Qualifications

Acknowledgements
Syllabus
Syllabus devised by Nik Preston
Syllabus authoring by Ash Preston, Antony Greaves and Nik Preston
Syllabus advisors: Joe Rubel, Chad Jackson, Sam Vasanth and Hannah V
Edited by Simon Troup, Abbie Thomas, Zoe Woodroffe and Nik Preston
Publishing
Cover design and artwork: Phil Millard
Original illustrations: Simon Troup
Typesetting and design: Simon Troup and Jennie Troup
Cover photograph: © George Pimentel/Getty Images
Audio
Audio composition: Ash Preston
Audio mixing and mastering: Ash Preston
Executive Producers
Norton York
John Simpson
Contact
RSL
Harlequin House
Ground Floor
7 High Street
Teddington
Middlesex
TW11 8EE
www.rslawards.com
Telephone: +44 (0)345 460 4747
Email: [email protected]
3 RSL Music Production Specification

Contents
Specification at a Glance Annex 1: Unit Specifications
3 Acknowledgements 10 Grade 1
4 Table of Contents 14 Grade 2
5 Total Qualification Time 18 Grade 3
5 Assessment Summary 22 Grade 4
26 Grade 5
Section A: Qualification Summary 30 Grade 6
6 A.1 Aims and Broad Objectives 34 Grade 7
6 A.2 Progression 38 Grade 8
6 A.3 Qualification Structure
6 A.4 Entry Requirements
Section B: Assessment Information

6 B.1 Assessment Methodology
7 .2 Expectation of Knowledge, Skills
B
and Understanding
7 B.3 Quality Assurance
Section C: Candidate Access and Registration

7 C.1 Access and Registration
7 C.2 Recommended Prior Learning
Section D: Complains and Appeals

7 D: Complaints and Appeals
Section E: Equal Opportunities

7 E: Equal Opportunities
Section F: Contacts for Help & Support

8 Contact Information

SPECIFICATION AT A GLANCE
Graded Examinations in Music Production
Total no. Guided Learning Total Qualification

Qualification Title of Units Hours Credit Time
Level 1 Award in 1 10 5 50
Music Production: Grade 1
Level 1 Award in 1 15 8 75
Level 1 Award in Music 1 16 11 102

Production: Grade 3
Level 2 Certificate in 1 21 13 130





Assessment
Assessment
Form of Assessment All assessments are carried out by external examiners. Candidates are required to carry out a combination of
practical tasks and underpinning theoretical assessment.
Unit Format Unit specifications contain the title, unit code, credit level, credit value, learning outcomes, assessment criteria,
grade descriptor, and types of evidence required for the unit.
Bands of Assessment There are four bands of assessment (distinction, merit, pass and unclassified) for the qualification as a whole.
Quality Assurance Quality Assurance ensures that all assessments are carried out to the same standard by objective sampling
and re-assessment of candidates’ work. A team of external examiners is appointed, trained and standardised
by RSL.

QUALIFICATION INFORMATION
SECTION A: QUALIFICATION SUMMARY
A.1 Aims and Broad Objectives A.3 Qualification Structure

The aim of the musical production qualifications is to provide a A graded qualification consists of a range of both practical
flexible, progressive mastery approach to the knowledge, skills and knowledge based tasks which are based on detailed
and understanding required for music production. requirements outlined in the relevant syllabus.
Therefore, requirements for each grade will be set out in detail
RSL’s graded qualifications motivate and encourage candidates in the Unit Specifications below (page 8 and onwards) and the
of all ages and levels through a system of progressive mastery, learning outcomes and assessment criteria for each unit will
enabling candidates to develop and enhance skills, require knowledge, skills and understanding of these syllabus
knowledge and understanding in a safe and consistent way. requirements to be demonstrated at the grade entered.
The qualifications are beneficial for candidates wishing to
progress at their own pace through smaller steps of achievement.
A.4 Entry Requirements
These qualifications are suitable for candidates in the Under 16, There are no entry requirements for these qualifications.
16+, 16–18, 19+ age groups. However, candidates should be aware that the content at
the higher grades will require a level of knowledge and
understanding covered in previous qualifications.
A.2 Progression
Graded qualifications provide a flexible progression route for For further details on exam dates and fees and to apply for
candidates. They are a positive means of determining progress your music production grades please visit the RSL website
and enable candidates to learn the necessary techniques to gain at www.rslawards.com
entry to FE and HE courses. Graded qualifications operate
according to a well established methodology of ‘progressive
mastery’. They allow candidates to be tested in discrete stages in
the development of a wide range of skills. They tend to be more
rigorous than other types of exams and for that reason industry
is confident that achievement at the highest level gained by
candidates of graded qualifications will have the skills necessary
to work in other areas of the business.
SECTION B: ASSESSMENT INFORMATION
B.1 Assessment Methodology Examination timings for the graded examinations in

The graded examinations in Music Production are assessed Music Production are as follows:
via an examination. The examination is divided into the n Grade 1: 90 minutes
following sections: n Grade 2: 90 minutes
A written examination covering knowledge of: n Grade 3: 90 minutes
n music production terminology n Grade 4: 120 minutes
n sound and audio fundamentals n Grade 5: 120 minutes
n Grade 6: 180 minutes
A listening test divided into three sections: n Grade 7: 180 minutes
n sonic fidelity n Grade 8: 180 minutes
n music theory and harmony
n stylistic awareness All assessment of these qualifications is external and is
undertaken by RSL Examiners.
A practical assessment divided into two sections:
n technical skills
n professional scenario

B.2 Expectations of Knowledge, Skills B.3 Quality Assurance

and Understanding All RSL examinations and graded qualifications are standardised
The graded examination system is one based on the principle of according to the processes and procedures laid down by RSL.
‘progressive mastery’: each step in the exam chain demonstrates
learning, progression and skills in incremental steps.
Successful learning is characterised by a mastery of the
fundamentals of the skills demanded in each grade.
Learners will be able to complete a set of practical tasks and be

tested on their underpinning knowledge (the complexity and
variety of tasks are determined by which qualification is being
attempted), which allows them to demonstrate Music
Production knowledge, skills and understanding relevant
to the grade. These technical skills set a firm platform for
further technical and creative development by the learner.
SECTION C: CANDIDATE ACCESS AND REGISTRATION
C.1 Access and Registration C.2 Recommended Prior Learning

The qualifications will: Learners are not required to have any prior learning for these
n be available to everyone who is capable of reaching the qualifications. However, learners should ensure that they are
required standards aware of the requirements and expectations of each grade prior
n be free from any barriers that restrict access and progression to entering for an assessment.
no ffer equal opportunities for all wishing to access
the qualifications
At the point of application, RSL will ensure that all candidates

are fully informed about the requirements and demands
of the qualification.
Candidates may enter online for any of the qualifications

at various points in the calendar year in territories throughout
the world. Dates will be published on the website at
www.rslawards.com.
SECTION D: COMPLAINTS AND APPEALS
All procedural complaints and appeals, including malpractice and requests for reasonable adjustments/special considerations,
can be found on the RSL website www.rslawards.com.
SECTION E: EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY
RSL’s Equal Opportunities policy can be found on the RSL website www.rslawards.com.

SECTION F: CONTACTS FOR HELP & SUPPORT
All correspondence should be directed to:
RSL
Harlequin House
Ground Floor
7 High Street
Teddington
Middlesex
TW11 8EE
Or [email protected]

Annex 1
Unit Specifications
Unit specifications are divided into learning outcomes and assessment criteria:
n Learning Outcome – a statement of what has been demonstrated as a result of the
successful completion of the assessment criteria
n Assessment Criteria – the evidence upon which the candidate is assessed
Unit specifications also give details of the Credit Value (notional learning) and the Guided
Learning Hours (GLH) which represent indicative teaching time for the unit. Each unit also
contains the detailed content to be covered at each grade, telling candidates and teachers
everything they need to know about the relevant qualification.

UNIT SPECIFICATIONS: GRADE 1
LEVEL 1I
GRADE 1
Grade 1 is intended as a basic introduction to music production. It is expected that candidates are competent in the fundamentals
of music production prior to entering the examination.
THEORETICAL WRITTEN EXAM
This will assess the candidate's knowledge and understanding of the following two sections.
n Music Production Terminology

n Sound & Audio Fundamentals
At Grade 1 the theory content covered will include subject areas such as identifying studio hardware, physical audio formats, analogue
connectivity, computer & digital technology, DAW basics, microphones, MIDI basics, basic audio technology and the fundamentals
of mono & stereo sound.
At Grade 1 candidates will be expected to:
n Identify images of studio equipment to include mixing desks, microphones, DAWs, drum kits, cables
n Identify images of physical formats to include CD, vinyl, cassette tape, Minidisc, DAT
n Identify images of analogue connections to include Jack, XLR, Phono / RCA, DIN, Speakon
n Identify images of computer peripherals to include Audio Interfaces, MIDI keyboards, computer mouse, computer keyboard,
computer monitor
n Identify images of the different DAWs, including Logic, Ableton, Pro Tools, Cubase, FL Studio
n Identify images of popular microphone models, to include Shure SM58, Shure SM57, AKG D112, Neumann U87, AKG C451
n Identify images of specific DAW workspaces, to include arrange window, mix window, sample editor, plugins,
software instruments
n Identify the function of music production technology from an image, including channel faders, pan, mute, routing,
headphone volume
n Briefly describe sound and acoustic terms, including mono, stereo, surround, high fidelity, units of sound level (Db)

LISTENING TEST
The listening test will present candidates with questions relating to sonic fidelity, music theory and harmony and stylistic awareness.
Audio files will be presented to the candidates and questions will relate specifically to the relevant audio file. This will assess the
candidate’s ability to hear and interpret:
Sonic Fidelity – Identifying instruments in isolation and within a mix

Music Theory & Harmony – Identifying relative pitch & basic note lengths
Stylistic Awareness – Identifying specific genres
n Identify instruments in isolation: Electric Guitar, Electric Bass, Acoustic Drums, Piano
n Identify a specific instrument within a mix from those listed above e.g. name the instrument playing the melody
n Identify when an instrument is missing from one version of a mix
n Identify consecutive notes as either higher or lower in pitch
n Identify basic note lengths: whole notes, half notes, quarter notes and eighth notes
n Identify common western music genres from a choice of two: pop and rock
Candidates are advised to practice these techniques using the mock assessment files available from www.rslawards.com.
PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
The Practical Assessment is divided into two sections as detailed below:
n Technical Skills – The candidate will be asked to complete a series of specified tasks, which must be completed using a
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). At Grade 1 the task will centre around session creation and basic inputting of notes
using a software instrument.
n Professional Scenario – The candidate will be presented with a situation, and must choose and implement appropriate
technique to resolve the scenario. At Grade 1 the scenario will require candidates to import a backing track into their DAW,
record a melody, and bounce the resulting mix to a new stereo audio file.
The completed session files must be appropriately named, saved and shared with your examiner as instructed, including all
associated audio files. It is vital that candidates are able to accurately save their work as failure to do so will result in an
unclassified mark.
On your exam day, you must bring:
n 1 x closed headphones with a ¼ inch jack

(Candidates without their own headphones will be unable to sit the exam)
n A hard copy of your Music Production syllabus book or your proof of digital purchase
Your exam centre will provide:
n 1 x computer; running either of the latest two versions of Cubase, Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton Live or GarageBand
(Please note; GarageBand, Cubase Elements and Cubase LE are only suitable for grades 1 to 5)
n 1 x midi controller keyboard – minimum 4 octaves, including a sustain pedal and pitch wheel

Title RSL Level 1 Award in Music Production – Grade 1
Qualification No. 603/0049/8
Level 1
Credit Value 5
GLH 10
TQT 50
Learning Outcome Assessment Criteria

You will: You can:
1. Understand the key 1.1 Demonstrate a knowledge of Grade 1 terminology related to:
terminology used in modern a. Music production equipment
music production b. Industry standard formats & protocols
c. Industry standard connectivity
d. Digital technology
e. Digital Audio Workstations
2. Understand the fundamentals 2.1 Demonstrate an understanding of Grade 1 fundamentals related to:
of sound and audio in relation a. Microphone technology and technique
to modern music production b. Audio recording, editing and processing
c. MIDI & audio programming
d. Audio Technology
e. Acoustics
3. Demonstrate effective 3.1 Demonstrate Grade 1 level aural skills in the areas of:
listening skills relevant to a. Sonic fidelity
modern music production b. Music theory
c. Stylistic awareness
4. D
emonstrate effective music 4.1 Demonstrate skills appropriate to Grade 1 in the areas of:
production technique a. File management
b. Digital Audio Workstation programming
c. Audio mixing
4.2 Demonstrate skills and understanding appropriate to Grade 1 in the areas of:
a. Interpretation of briefs
b. Music creation or editing
c. File sharing
Please note: candidates are required to achieve a minimum overall mark of 60% in order to achieve a pass.
Regardless of the overall mark, candidates must also achieve a minimum of 40% in every part (part A, B & C),
therefore demonstrating a knowledge and understanding of every learning outcome.

PART A: TERMINOLOGY AND FUNDAMENTALS
Attainment Band Unclassified Pass Merit Distinction
Mark Range 0–14 15–18 19–20 21–25
Grade Descriptor Demonstrated an Demonstrated an Demonstrated an Demonstrated an

understanding of the understanding of the understanding of the understanding of the
key terminology used in key terminology used in key terminology used in key terminology used in
modern music production modern music production modern music production modern music production
and the fundamentals of and the fundamentals of and the fundamentals of and the fundamentals of
sound and audio less than sound and audio between sound and audio between sound and audio more than
60% of the time. 60% and 74% of the time. 75% and 84% of the time. 84% of the time.
PART B: LISTENING SKILLS
Mark Range 0–8 9–10 11–12 13–15
Grade Descriptor Demonstrated effective Demonstrated effective Demonstrated effective Demonstrated effective
listening skills relevant to listening skills relevant to listening skills relevant to listening skills relevant to
less than 60% of the time. between 60% and 74% of between 75% and 84% of more than 84% of the
the time. the time. time.
PART C: TECHNICAL SKILLS & PROFESSIONAL SCENARIO
Mark Range 0–35 36–44 45–50 51–60
music production music production music production music production
technique in less than 60% technique in between 60% technique in between 75% technique in more than
of the practical tasks. and 74% of the practical and 84% of the practical 84% of the practical tasks.
tasks. tasks.

LEVEL 1I
GRADE 2
Grade 2 is intended for candidates who have acquired basic music production knowledge and skills.


At Grade 2 the theory content covered will include subject areas such as identifying studio hardware, digital file formats,
digital connectivity, software components, DAW concepts & capabilities, microphones, non-linear editing concepts,
EQ controls and hearing physiology.
n Identify studio equipment from descriptions, to include mixing desks, computers, microphones, patchbays,
outboard effects
n Identify file formats from their suffix, to include Waveform, Audio Interchange File Format, Mpeg-2 layer 3,
Logic Pro, Pro Tools
n Identify connections to include Phono/RCA, XLR, ADAT lightpipe, USB, 5 pin DIN
n Identify software and functions, to include operating systems, system preferences, Apple App store,
Apple Mac Finder
n Identify the purpose of a DAW
n Identify types of microphone, to include Dynamic, Condenser, Valve, Ribbon
n Identify appropriate purposes for types of microphone, such as for gig vocals, kick drums, and appropriate
use of phantom power
n Identify the different types of DAW track, to include Audio Track, Instrument Track, MIDI Track, Auxiliary Track,
Automation
n Identify basic editing functions to include cut, copy, paste, delete, duplicate
n Identify both natural and electrical sound sources and receptors, including the meaning of the word ‘Transducer’

LISTENING TEST
Sonic Fidelity – Identifying timing and tuning flaws in a performance

Music Theory & Harmony – Identifying major and minor triads and basic time signatures
n Identify which instrument within a mix is out of tune with the other musicians
n Identify which instrument within a mix is out of time with the other musicians
n Identify out of time drum loops
n Identify major and minor triads
n Identify basic time signatures: 4/4 & 3/4
n Identify common western music genres from a choice of two: blues and metal
The Practical Assessment is divided into two sections as detailed below.
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). At Grade 2 the task will centre around MIDI programming using software instruments
and basic mix technique.
n Professional Scenario – The candidate will be presented with a situation, and must choose and implement appropriate technique
to resolve the scenario. At Grade 2 the scenario will require candidates to rearrange provided audio and MIDI loops.
unclassified mark.


Level 1
Credit Value 8
GLH 15
TQT 75

You will: You can:
d. Audio Technology
e. Acoustics
4. D
c. Audio mixing
c. File sharing

Mark Range 0–14 15–18 19–20 21–25

Mark Range 0–8 9–10 11–12 13–15
Mark Range 0–35 36–44 45–50 51–60
tasks. tasks.

LEVEL 1I
GRADE 3
Grade 3 is intended for candidates who have a good understanding of music production knowledge and skills.


At Grade 3 the theory content covered will include subject areas such as interpreting the functions of studio hardware, digital
protocols, analogue connectivity, computer memory & storage, microphones, using loops, the MIDI protocol, dynamic
processing and frequency.
n Interpret functions of a mixing desk, to include gain, EQ, auxiliaries, faders, pan
n Interpret and identify digital transfer protocols, including their relative data transfer rates, including USB,
Thunderbolt, MADI, SPDIF, ADAT
n Interpret analogue connections and their purpose, to include XLR, ¼” Jack, Mini Jack, Phono/RCA, D-Sub
n Interpret the purpose and advantages of computer systems, to include RAM, Hard Disks, Solid State Drives,
including choosing the appropriate option in relation to data transfer rates
n Interpret appropriate use for DAW functions, to include templates, markers, bounce, piano roll / MIDI editors, quantise
n Briefly explain what a microphone is for and how it works
n Briefly explain the creation, use and advantages of audio loops
n Understand MIDI, including what the acronym stands for, what it is, and how it works from a user perspective
n Interpret and briefly explain audio technology, including compression, limiting, gating, expanding
n Understand frequency, including its units of measurement, the difference between Hz and kHz, human
hearing range

LISTENING TEST
Sonic Fidelity – Distinguishing between mono and stereo recordings and hearing different stereo widths
Music Theory & Harmony – Identifying major, minor and blues scales and eighth note triplets
n Identify the difference between Mono and Stereo recordings

n Identify the difference between Mono and Stereo mixes
n Identify differences in stereo width
n Identify major, natural minor and blues scales
n Identify eighth note triplets in 4/4
n Identify common western music genres from a choice of two: reggae and soul
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). At Grade 3 the task will centre around creating audio loops from provided material.
technique to resolve the scenario. At Grade 3 the scenario will require candidates to programme a simple backing track
using a set chord structure. Therefore candidates must be confident in creating chords in the key of C major and G major.
unclassified mark.


Level 1
Credit Value 11
GLH 16
TQT 102

You will: You can:
d. Audio Technology
e. Acoustics
4. D
c. Audio mixing
c. File sharing

Mark Range 0–14 15–18 19–20 21–25

Mark Range 0–8 9–10 11–12 13–15
Mark Range 0–35 36–44 45–50 51–60
tasks. tasks.

LEVEL 2I
GRADE 4
Grade 4 is intended for candidates who have a detailed understanding of music production.


At Grade 4 the theory content covered will include subject areas such as describing equipment controls, surround formats, wireless
connectivity, backing up files, plugin concepts, stereo microphone techniques, non-linear editing, software instruments, side-chaining
and sound propagation.
n Describe the controls on studio equipment, to include threshold, ratio, attack, release, hold, on compressors,
gates and expanders
n Describe sound formats including mono, stereo, 2.1, 5.1, 7.1, quadraphonic
n Describe the importance of file management and backing up
n Describe plugins, what they are for, their advantages and formats
n Describe stereo microphone techniques, to include XY, AB, MS
n Describe linear and non-linear editing, destructive and non-destructive editing
n Describe software instruments, their purpose, formats and common uses including synths, samplers and
real instrument emulation
n Describe production techniques to include side-chaining, de-essing, including both dedicated plugins / devices,
and using standard equipment to achieve the same result
n Describe basic acoustic concepts, including how sound travels through air / solids, sound waves, compression / rarefaction

LISTENING TEST
Sonic Fidelity – Identifying use of compression on instruments and mixes

Music Theory & Harmony – Identifying semi tones and tones and compound time signatures
n Identify the difference between compressed and uncompressed audio recordings

n Identify the difference between compressed and uncompressed mixes
n Identify when a compressor is being controlled by a side-chain
n Identify semi tones (chromaticism) and whole tones
n Identify compound time signatures: 6/8 and 12/8
n Identify common western music genres from a choice of two: country and funk
n Technical Skills – The candidate will be asked to complete a series of specified tasks, which must be completed
using a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). At Grade 4 the task will centre around use of equalisation (EQ) for
corrective / creative purposes.
n Professional Scenario – The candidate will be presented with a situation and must choose and implement appropriate
technique to resolve the scenario. At Grade 4 the scenario will require candidates to remove unwanted noise from a
recording using appropriate techniques, such as manual editing, gating, crossfades.
unclassified mark.


Title RSL Level 2 Certificate in Music Production – Grade 4
Level 1
Credit Value 13
GLH 21
TQT 130

You will: You can:
d. Audio Technology
e. Acoustics
4. D
c. Audio mixing
a. Interpretation of an intermediate level brief
c. File sharing

Mark Range 0–14 15–18 19–20 21–25

Mark Range 0–8 9–10 11–12 13–15
Mark Range 0–35 36–44 45–50 51–60
tasks. tasks.

LEVEL 2I
GRADE 5
Grade 5 is intended for learners who have practical experience of modern music production.


At Grade 5 the theory content covered will include subject areas such as signal routing, the Compact Disc format,
patch bays, networking, file sharing, ambient microphone technique, multitrack recording, MIDI controllers, PCM theory
and constructive interference.
n Outline functions of studio equipment, to include routing, buses, auxiliaries, inserts, patchbays
n Outline the Compact Disc format and its associated standards, to include bit depth, sample rate, history, data and
audio capacities
n Outline studio connectivity in the studio, including the function of the patchbay, normalisation, open / closed
connections and hard wiring
n Outline computer networking technology, including LAN, WAN, Ethernet, network standards, Wifi standards
n Outline routing techniques within a Digital Audio Workstation
n Outline multi-microphone techniques, such as recording kick drums, snares, tom toms, hi-hats, overheads and ambience
n Outline multitrack recording, its advantages, disadvantages, history and limitations
n Outline MIDI technologies, including controller keyboards, MIDI pickups, electronic drum triggers

LISTENING TEST
Sonic Fidelity – Identifying resonant frequencies

Music Theory & Harmony – Identifying seventh chords and swung rhythms
n Identify the frequency range that has been boosted in a provided recording
n Identify the frequency range that has been boosted in a provided mix
n Identify the frequency range of a sine wave
n Identify maj7, dom7 and min7 chords
n Identify swung rhythms in 4/4
n Identify common western music genres from a choice of two: jazz and hip-hop
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). At Grade 5 the task will centre around session management and organisation, such as
creating, naming and colour coding tracks, creating markers, session file management.
n Professional Scenario – The candidate will be presented with a situation, and must choose and implement appropriate technique to
resolve the scenario. At Grade 5 the scenario will require candidates to add musical layers to material using software instruments.
Candidates are encouraged to practice listening to and duplicating melodies.
unclassified mark.


Level 2
Credit Value 16
GLH 21
TQT 158

You will: You can:
d. Audio Technology
e. Acoustics
4. D
c. Audio mixing
a. Interpretation of an intermediate level brief
c. File sharing

Mark Range 0–14 15–18 19–20 21–25

Mark Range 0–8 9–10 11–12 13–15
Mark Range 0–35 36–44 45–50 51–60
tasks. tasks.

LEVEL 3I
GRADE 6
Grade 6 is intended for candidates who have mastered basic music production technique and can use creativity to enhance their
productions.


At Grade 6 the theory content covered will include subject areas such as creative uses for studio hardware, lossy audio formats,
balanced audio, cloud storage, plugins, multi microphone technique, automation, basic software synthesis, dynamic range and
sound isolation.
n E xplain how to use studio equipment for creative purposes, to include adding reverberation, creating a pumping sound
with a compressor, ducking
n Explain the terms ‘lossy’ and lossless audio formats, naming examples of each
n Explain balanced audio, its purpose, advantages, technology
n Explain cloud storage, its purpose, advantages, disadvantages
n Explain creative uses of specified plugins, to include EQ, reverb, delay, compressors, gates, pitch correction
n Explain stereo ambient microphone techniques, to include enhancing drum recordings, specifying appropriate technique
n Explain automation, its purpose, advantages, and techniques
n Explain the basics of sound synthesis, including oscillators, low frequency oscillators, envelopes, amplifiers
n Explain dynamic range, headroom and signal to noise ratio

LISTENING TEST
Sonic Fidelity – Identifying industry standard effects

Music Theory & Harmony – Identify diminished and augmented triads and genre specific drum grooves
n Identify the difference between spatial effects: reverb and delay

n Identify the difference between phase effects: chorus and flanger
n Identify multiple effects stacked on one sound
n Identify diminished and augmented triads
n Identify genre by solo drum grooves alone
n Introducing modern electronic music genres – house and modern R’n’B
n Technical Skills – The candidate will be asked to complete a series of specified tasks, which must be completed using a Digital Audio
Workstation (DAW). At Grade 6 the task will centre around adding effects using buses and auxiliaries.
n Professional Scenario – The candidate will be presented with a situation, and must choose and implement appropriate technique to
resolve the scenario. At Grade 6 the candidate may choose to specialise in Audio Production, Electronic Music Production or Sound
for Media:
n Audio Production: The scenario will require the use of automation to fix a dynamically uneven vocal recording
n Electronic Music Production: The scenario will require the creation of an original synth patch that works with
the provided drum groove
n Sound for Media: The scenario will require the candidate to create a suitable sonic or musical atmosphere
to the provided image
unclassified mark.


Level 3
Credit Value 20
GLH 32
TQT 198

You will: You can:
d. Audio Technology
e. Acoustics
4. D
c. Audio mixing
a. Interpretation of an professional brief
c. File sharing to industry standards
4.3 Demonstrate skills and understanding appropriate to Grade 6 in the areas of Electronic Music Production:
a. Interpretation of professional briefs
b. Electronic music creation or editing
4.3 Demonstrate skills and understanding appropriate to Grade 6 in the areas of Sound for Media:
b. Audio creation or editing to enhance a visual medium

Mark Range 0–14 15–18 19–20 21–25

Mark Range 0–8 9–10 11–12 13–15
Mark Range 0–35 36–44 45–50 51–60
tasks. tasks.

LEVEL 3I
GRADE 7
Grade 7 is intended for candidates who are competent in music production technique, and are capable of overcoming challenging
situations.


At Grade 7 the theory content covered will include subject areas such as working around equipment faults, format incompatibility,
connectivity faults, software optimisation, latency, phase, stereo width, groove / quantisation, signal noise and studio monitoring.
n E xplain how to overcome technical challenges, such as faulty cables, faulty microphones
n E xplain how to overcome format incompatibility, to include transferring projects between different
Digital Audio Workstations using OMFs
n Explain how to find a fault in chain of devices, such as a drop in level, low frequency hum
n Explain how to optimise operating systems for audio work
n Explain latency and how to overcome it
n Explain phase issues and how to overcome them
n E xplain how to add stereo width, using techniques to include the HAAS effect, dedicated plugins, manual use
of delays and phase effects
n Explain quantisation and groove templates
n Explain how to minimise noise, through matching level and impedance
n Explain studio monitor designs, and how to set monitor speakers for optimum listening experience

LISTENING TEST
Sonic Fidelity – Identifying stereo phase issues on instrument and full mix recordings
Music Theory & Harmony – Identifying harmonic & melodic minor scales, son and rumba clave
n Identify phase issues in a recording

n Identify phase issues within a mix
n Identify harmonic and melodic minor scales
n Identify son and rumba claves (3:2 & 2:3)
n Introducing modern electronic music genres – drum & bass and techno
n Technical Skills – The candidate will be asked to complete a series of specified tasks, which must be completed using
a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). At Grade 7 the task will centre around correcting the timing in a performance.
technique to resolve the scenario. At Grade 7 the candidate may choose to specialise in Audio Production, Electronic
Music Production or Sound for Media:
nA udio Production: The scenario will focus on creating a harmony to a vocal performance from a range of
software techniques
n Electronic Music Production: The scenario will require a drum break to be edited and re-timed to a new tempo
n Sound for Media: The scenario will require the candidate to create a sonic solution to an animated logo
unclassified mark.


Level 3
Credit Value 25
GLH 42
TQT 245

You will: You can:
d. Audio Technology
e. Acoustics
4. D
c. Audio mixing

Mark Range 0–14 15–18 19–20 21–25

Mark Range 0–8 9–10 11–12 13–15
Mark Range 0–35 36–44 45–50 51–60
tasks. tasks.

LEVEL 3I
GRADE 8
Grade 8 is intended for candidates who have mastered music production and are capable of critiquing their own work, therefore
achieving a professional finish to their productions.


At Grade 8 the theory content covered will include subject areas such as comparing studio hardware, audio file formats,
analogue vs. digital technology, microphone technique choice, vocal comping, triggered samples, balanced audio advantages
and acoustic room design.
n Compare two pieces of studio equipment, making reference to differences in specification

n Compare two audio file formats
n Compare analogue and digital connectivity, stating advantages and disadvantages
n Evaluate the impact that digital technology has had on music production
n Evaluate the impact that the Digital Audio Workstation has had on music production
n Choose appropriate microphone techniques for a given situation
n Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of audio editing, to include compositing vocals, drum timing
versus re-recording
n Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using MIDI triggered samples
n Evaluate the advantages of using balanced audio, and how to connect balanced and unbalanced devices together
in the same audio system
n Explain acoustic terms to include standing waves, room modes, diffusion, absorption

LISTENING TEST
Sonic Fidelity – Identifying high and low resolution audio files

Music Theory & Harmony – Identifying modes of the major scale and irregular time signatures
n Identify the difference between MP3 and Wav versions of the same recording
n Identify the difference between MP3 and Wav versions of the same full mix
n Identify the difference between 128Kbps and 320Kbps MP3’s
n Identify three modes of the major scale – Dorian, Mixolydian and Lydian
n Identify irregular time signatures – 5/4, 7/8
n Introducing modern electronic music genres from a choice of two: dubstep and edm
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). At Grade 8 the task will centre around creative music production technique such as
parallel compression.
technique to resolve the scenario. At Grade 8 the candidate may choose to specialise in Audio Production, Electronic Music
Production or Sound for Media:
nA udio Production: The scenario will focus on mastering a final mix with EQ, compressors and limiters
n Electronic Music Production: The scenario will focus on creating a remix using the supplied vocal sample
n Sound for Media: The scenario will require the candidate to synchronise sound effects, including foley,
to the provided video
unclassified mark.


Level 3
Credit Value 30
GLH 49
TQT 292

You will: You can:
d. Audio Technology
e. Acoustics
4. D
c. Audio mixing

Mark Range 0–14 15–18 19–20 21–25

Mark Range 0–8 9–10 11–12 13–15
Mark Range 0–35 36–44 45–50 51–60
tasks. tasks.

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MUSIC

Rockschool | Performance Arts Awards | Vocational Qualifications

3 RSL Music Production Specification

Section B: Assessment Information

Section C: Candidate Access and Registration

Section D: Complains and Appeals

Section E: Equal Opportunities

Section F: Contacts for Help & Support

4 RSL Music Production Specification

Graded Examinations in Music Production

Total no. Guided Learning Total Qualification

Level 1 Award in Music 1 16 11 102

Level 2 Certificate in 1 21 13 130

Level 2 Certificate in 1 21 16 158

Level 3 Certificate in 1 32 20 198

Level 3 Certificate in 1 42 25 245

Level 3 Certificate in 1 49 30 292

5 RSL Music Production Specification

SECTION A: QUALIFICATION SUMMARY

A.1 Aims and Broad Objectives A.3 Qualification Structure

SECTION B: ASSESSMENT INFORMATION

B.1 Assessment Methodology Examination timings for the graded examinations in

6 RSL Music Production Specification

B.2 Expectations of Knowledge, Skills B.3 Quality Assurance

Learners will be able to complete a set of practical tasks and be

SECTION C: CANDIDATE ACCESS AND REGISTRATION

C.1 Access and Registration C.2 Recommended Prior Learning

At the point of application, RSL will ensure that all candidates

Candidates may enter online for any of the qualifications

SECTION D: COMPLAINTS AND APPEALS

SECTION E: EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY

7 RSL Music Production Specification

SECTION F: CONTACTS FOR HELP & SUPPORT

All correspondence should be directed to:

8 RSL Music Production Specification

n Learning Outcome – a statement of what has been demonstrated as a result of the

successful completion of the assessment criteria

n Assessment Criteria – the evidence upon which the candidate is assessed

everything they need to know about the relevant qualification.

9 RSL Music Production Specification

THEORETICAL WRITTEN EXAM

n Music Production Terminology

At Grade 1 candidates will be expected to:

10 RSL Music Production Specification

Sonic Fidelity – Identifying instruments in isolation and within a mix

At Grade 1 candidates will be expected to:

The Practical Assessment is divided into two sections as detailed below:

On your exam day, you must bring:

n  1 x closed headphones with a ¼ inch jack

Your exam centre will provide:

11 RSL Music Production Specification

Title RSL Level 1 Award in Music Production – Grade 1

Qualification No. 603/0049/8

Learning Outcome Assessment Criteria

12 RSL Music Production Specification

PART A: TERMINOLOGY AND FUNDAMENTALS

Attainment Band Unclassified Pass Merit Distinction

Mark Range 0–14 15–18 19–20 21–25

Grade Descriptor Demonstrated an Demonstrated an Demonstrated an Demonstrated an

SECTION A: QUALIFICATION SUMMARY

SECTION B: ASSESSMENT INFORMATION

SECTION C: CANDIDATE ACCESS AND REGISTRATION

SECTION D: COMPLAINTS AND APPEALS

SECTION E: EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY

SECTION F: CONTACTS FOR HELP & SUPPORT

n Learning Outcome – a statement of what has been demonstrated as a result of the

THEORETICAL WRITTEN EXAM

n 1 x closed headphones with a ¼ inch jack

THEORETICAL WRITTEN EXAM

n 1 x closed headphones with a ¼ inch jack

THEORETICAL WRITTEN EXAM

n 1 x closed headphones with a ¼ inch jack

THEORETICAL WRITTEN EXAM

n 1 x closed headphones with a ¼ inch jack