Making Music at DCFE
The Music Course at Dunboyne College of Further Education (DCFE) has undergone significant development over the past decade, transforming from a foundation course into a comprehensive, two-year Higher National Diploma program. The HND in Artist Development for Musicians is now industry-focused, incorporating songwriting, performance, and artist development to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to enter the music industry directly.
Industry Focus and Career Opportunities
- Graduates of the HND in Artist Development for Musicians can pursue careers as session musicians, performing and working in the industry.
- They also have the option to pursue a degree in music, allowing them to step into universities and advanced entry programs.
The course has evolved to provide students with a range of opportunities, from performing live to recording audio and setting up stages. The involvement of students from the HND Sound Engineering, Film and Media, and Music programs creates a collaborative and dynamic environment, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in multiple areas of the music industry.
Performing at The Grand Social
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2018 | First-year music students performed at The Grand Social. |
| 2019 | HND Music students showcased their talents at The Grand Social. |
| 2020 | First and second-year HND Sound Engineering students helped with recording audio for footage of the night. |
| 2022 | First and second-year Film and Media students from the college also got involved by filming all the student’s performances throughout the night. |
The annual event has become an opportunity for students to showcase their talents in a real-world setting, with The Grand Social in Dublin providing an ideal location for live performances. This exposure allows students to gain a sense of what it’s like to perform in a professional environment, with the added benefit of a live audience.
Real Industry Focus
“I think one of the best quotes that stuck with me, was from a student a few years ago who said, they saw their favourite band play the stage at The Grand Social a week before they were on stage to performing their own music, that’s the experience that the students are getting is real industry focus,” said Robert Kelly, Head of Music and Sound at DCFE.
The success of the event is a testament to the course’s focus on providing students with industry-relevant skills and experiences. By offering students the opportunity to perform at The Grand Social, DCFE is giving them a taste of what it’s like to be a professional musician, complete with a live audience and real-world sound equipment.
A Night to Remember
- 25 original songs were performed over the course of a two-hour set.
- The students had only met in September, yet they managed to create a cohesive and engaging performance.
The atmosphere on the night was electric, with the students displaying a clear passion and dedication to their craft. The fact that all the songs performed were original compositions added an extra layer of creativity and originality to the event, showcasing the students’ unique talents and perspectives.
Conclusion
The Music Course at DCFE has come a long way in recent years, providing students with a comprehensive education and a range of opportunities to develop their skills and knowledge in the music industry. By offering students the chance to perform at The Grand Social and gain industry-relevant experience, DCFE is giving them a head start in their careers, setting them up for success in the competitive music industry.