Exactly what it says on the tin; this programme is designed for serious, ambitious artists who are ready to push themselves to enhance their brand, repertoire and overall musicianship.

As an industry-first programme, you will build your network, learn from those in the field and be given opportunities to work in professional environments – all while building up a cracking portfolio to showcase for future work.

The AD4 programme will explore all areas of the music industry so you have a well rounded view of: How to market yourself, collaborate with others, network, build a team and put yourself out there.

As an AD4 artist, you will be given exclusive opportunities at the end of the year to help equip you with the knowledge and skills to help transition from an ACC Student into a working professional.

You’ll be an artist who knows what they want, but needs the extra support and knowledge from those who have done it for themselves. If you are looking to polish your current skills, learn how to get a foot in the door and want to push yourself to be the best version of you – this is the programme for you!

Qualification:
One year RSL Level 4 Diploma for Creative Practitioners.
Consists for four units generating 64 ten-hour credits.

How Long:
The Artist Development course lasts for one year.
It is usually delivered over two to four days per week from September to June (daytime). How long you are in college will depend on what additional English and Maths sessions you need to attend.

Where:
Birmingham, Bristol, Manchester, Norwich, York

Entry Requirements:
Ideally, you need a Level 3 qualification and a strong idea of what you want from your brand. If you don’t have a qual but have something a bit different, like years and years of experience, then definitely still apply. But number one is, you have to be at least 17 years old.

Assessment:
This qualification is coursework based and does not contain exams. Some assessments take place practically and involves your ability to carry out a task or brief being recorded. Coursework is assessed through a variety of methods with the qualification being gained through a good balance of practical and written assessments.

Fees:
If you are aged 17-18 on 31st August 2020, then course is FREE
If you are aged 19+ please refer to our 19+ information on the fees page.

Deconstruction
You will look at your current artist make up, such as your image, brand, music and presence. With extensive market research and learning the up-to-date trends in the music industry, you will then challenge your perspective of you, break it down and then build it back up again.

Brand Development
You will learn all of the elements that make up your brand – it’s not just an artist name and logo you know! Working with those in the know, you will explore how to market that shiny, new brand, discover how to cut through the noise and build a portfolio to showcase the enhanced version of you!

Artist Showcase & Your Future
We will teach you about who you need in your inner circle, to how to network with those you want to rub shoulders with. Each AD4 artist will present themselves in the form of an end of year showcase, as well as other opportunities to meet, work with and learn from the industry. Our tutors will work closely with you to put together a strategic action plan to prepare for your future.

From mentoring opportunities, to presenting yourself to Cetera, ACC’s in-house Artist Management and Development programme, to working with live briefs, ACC Live will give AD4 artists the chance to work on industry fuelled projects as well as learn the secrets of the trade from those working in all areas of music.

You’ve picked up the tricks of the trade directly from those in the industry. You’re confident in your artistry and brand, you’ve made those all important contacts and gained some invaluable experiences. it’s time to get yourself out there. At this point, Cetera, ACC’s in-house Artist Management and Development company will be on the lookout for fresh talent to join its roster.

Applying for the ACC Artist Development programme is easy.

All you need to do is fill in our short online application form. After you have created an account you will be able to provide links to online work, upload relevant documents and book an interview slot.

• AGE: You must be at least 17 years old to apply.

SKILLSET:

• We value your creative passion and skills above all else. You should have a Level 3 qualification, such as a RSL or BTEC Subsidiary Diploma.
• As a guide, this course is for more experienced musicians and producers with experience of creating your own music. You should have an awareness and understanding of yourself as a music artist and how you would like to develop.
• You should be able to demonstrate that you have the potential to work at Level 4.
• Applicants with non-standard qualifications and/or experience are encouraged to apply and will be considered if they can demonstrate appropriate ability through application.
• Please note you will not be able to enrol if you will be under the age of 16 on 31st August. Applications from people under this age are still welcome, but will be deferred to the following year.

INTERVIEW:

• You will be invited to an audition/interview. Please prepare:
  • 2 or 3 original tracks, either for live audition, or for playback and discussion. Please feel free to bring other supporting material such as video, or provide links to online content (e.g. Soundcloud).
  • A rationale of your music and how you see it developing.
  • Any supporting material representing you as an artist, for example links to a website or social media page, artwork, posters, photoshoots, video etc., with an appreciation of the brand/image you are trying to create.
  • Ideas for your business strategy as an artist. This could be around the development of your fanbase and potential partnerships with music industry players (e.g. managers, agents, labels etc.). In the case of bands, members will need to identify individual roles within the business strategy.