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Further and post-16 music education

The East Sussex Academy of Music (ESAM) offers further education music courses in partnership with Sussex Downs College.

All Academy students are formally enrolled as students of Sussex Downs College and are entitled to benefits such as using the student welfare services, the Learning Centre and IT facilities. You can get involved with college sports teams and join the National Union of Students (NUS).

Apply for an September 2009 Academy place

For information about the Academy and music courses starting in September 2009, download the East Sussex Academy of Music prospectus from Connexions 360.

To apply for a place, contact Lewes Sixth Form College.

Courses

In the first year of study, you complete an AS Level course. In the second year, you complete an A2 Level course. Together they combine to become an A level qualification. The Academy offers:

  • AS Music
  • A2 Music
  • AS Music Technology
  • A2 Music Technology
  • Diploma in Pre Professional Music (awarded by OCN, a 2-year course)
  • a full range of instrumental and vocal tuition leading to a full range of exams as offered by the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, Trinity Guidhall and Rock School.

Performance opportunities

Performing in public is a crucial part of your development as a musician. In the company of a large number of talented musicians, the Academy gives you an ideal opportunity to perform at all levels, and caters for a wide cross-section of skills and styles.

Currently, performance groups include:

  • ESAM Choir
  • Academy Voices
  • ESAM Concert Wind Band
  • ESAM Orchestra.

Concerts and recitals

More information about ESAM concerts and recitals, is available at Connexions 360 – Further and post 16 music courses.

Academy teachers

  • Head of East Sussex Academy of Music: Peter Baker (MA, B.Mus Hons, MTC, AKC, Lond.)
  • Lecturer in Music and Music Technology: Nicholas Houghton (BA Hons, FRCO)
  • Lecturer in Music Technology: Pendle Poucher (BA Hons)
  • Lecturer in Popular Music: Stuart Wagstaff (B.Mus Hons)
  • Choral Conductor: John Hancorn (GTCL, LTCL)
  • Academy Accompanist: Rachel Fryer (M.Mus, BA Hons, PGCE)
  • Academy Administrator: Beth Mudford

Lewes Sixth Form College

All the courses at The East Sussex Academy of Music (ESAM) are operated by East Sussex Music Service in partnership with Lewes Sixth Form College, Sussex Downs College.

Playing the harp in concert
Playing the harp in concert

Applying to university

Did you know that if you achieve a music grade 6 to 8, it can count towards your UCAS points when you apply to university? For more information visit the Trinity College website.

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East Sussex County Council, County Hall, St Anne's Crescent, Lewes, BN7 1UE. Phone: 0345 60 80 190