The Music Course at Dunboyne College of Further Education (DCFE) has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, evolving from a one-year foundation course to a comprehensive two-year Higher National Diploma in Artist Development for Musicians. This growth has been driven by a focus on industry relevance, aimed at equipping students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the music industry.
The course has undergone a substantial development, from a Level 5 foundation course to a Level 6 Higher National Diploma, which includes a range of modules such as songwriting, performance, and artist development. This holistic approach enables students to transition directly into the industry, either as session musicians or as part of a broader music career. The HND in Artist Development for Musicians provides students with the opportunity to pursue a degree in a top university and advance their music career.
Industry Focus and Real-World Experience
The course has been designed with industry focus in mind, providing students with hands-on experience and real-world exposure. Robert Kelly, Head of Music and Sound at DCFE, highlights the importance of this approach: “Rather than just a taste of course or a stepping stone to go into classical or traditional music courses, it is now industry focused.” By incorporating industry-standard equipment and software, students learn to work with professionals in the music industry, gaining valuable experience and building a network of contacts.
- First-year music students showcased their talents at The Grand Social in Dublin, a renowned music venue in the heart of the city.
- First and second-year HND Sound Engineering students helped with recording audio for footage of the night, as well as setting up the stage and assisting the in-house engineers with the production.
- First and second-year Film and Media students from the college also got involved by filming all the student’s performances throughout the night.
A Decade of Performance at The Grand Social
DCFE students have been performing at The Grand Social for five years, creating an exceptional opportunity for students to play in Dublin city centre and gain experience performing in a real-world setting. This experience is invaluable, as it allows students to develop their stage presence, performance skills, and ability to engage with live audiences.
“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.
A Night to Remember: The Music Performance at The Grand Social
The music performance at The Grand Social was an incredible experience, showcasing the talents of the students. The event featured 25 original songs, all written and performed by the students, over the course of a two-hour set. This display of creativity and talent was met with applause and appreciation from the audience.
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Original Compositions | All 25 songs performed on the night were original compositions, written and performed by the students. |
| Performers | Over 20 students performed, showcasing their talents and skills as musicians. |
| Setting | The performance took place at The Grand Social in Dublin, a renowned music venue. |
Conclusion
The Music Course at DCFE has made significant strides in recent years, evolving into a comprehensive and industry-relevant program. By focusing on real-world experience and providing students with hands-on training, the course has equipped students with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the music industry. With a strong focus on original compositions and live performances, the course has set a high standard for music education, providing students with a platform to showcase their talents and pursue their music career.