Still looking at your University options? UD created two bespoke Level 4 courses (the first year of a degree), aimed at meeting the unique needs of students making Black music looking to advance their production, performance and technology know-how…

The partnership between UD and our accreditor, UEL (University of East London) means students reap the best of both worlds, with access to the UEL campus, accommodation halls and student services while studying at UD’s cutting edge HQ, Talent House.
here are some of our most frequently asked Level 4 questions…

Who are UD? UD is a London-based music organisation bringing communities together around Black music and Black music culture. With over 20 years of experience in nurturing and supporting Black and culturally diverse artists when they need it most, UD acts as a bridge between burgeoning talent and the music industry.

At UD, we are passionate about excellence, and the potential for excellence in every young person we encounter. Aligning professionalism and business acumen with an understanding of youth and subculture, we run industry-led events, artist development and employment support programmes. Those that have come through our doors can now be found working at institutions including Island Records, Nike, Rinse FM, GRM, Beats and SBTV. Artists we have helped and showcased at early stages of their career include Wretch32, Little Simz, Ghetts, Andreya Triana, Maverick Sabre, Dyo, Devlin, Labrinth, Skepta and Paigey Cakey.

What events do you run at UD? We have monthly Open Mic and community music events with performance opportunities alongside regular Industry masterclasses and workshops. Our annual Industry Takeover event will return in 2025, with the 2024 edition featuring speakers including BERWYN, Swindle, Candice Carty-Williams, Darcus Beese, BBC Music, Jasmine Takhar, Ahmed Hussain (BBC Asian Network), Universal Music and many more.

How many UCAS points do I need for the course? 112 new UCAS points. From A-level: must include a pass in A2 in at least 2 subjects. From BTEC: Extended Diploma or Diploma. From International Baccalaureate: Diploma with 24 points including a minimum of 15 points at Higher Level.

I am interested in making music for games/films, what are my options? At the heart of the producer strand is the production of music. The projects are designed in a way to give you a wide range of skills that can be applied to a range of industry scenarios. If you choose to specialise in music for games and films, this can be accommodated into the projects and specific guidance provided in relation to the project and how you adapt the aims to suit your needs.

What DAWs will you be using on the course? At the heart of the Talent House is a 6-room record production and teaching facility, featuring studio-wide Dante Audio Over I/P Connectivity via Focusrite’s Rednet, for management of inter-studio audio playback, headphone mixes and recording management. Focusrite’s Rednet system is featured in Studios 1, 2 and 3 plus the live room, with expandability into the other two production rooms and teaching spaces for facility-wide content production. Our computers are equipped with the latest in audio software, with the Mac suite equipped with everything you need to edit a video, create special fx, mix a record or pursue other creative endeavours.

Why should I study my Level 4 Course at UD? Our new bespoke Level 4 Courses were created specifically to address a gap in the education market for artists and producers making music of Black origin. UD have worked extensively to elevate Black music practitioners over the last 25 years. We specialise in delivering bespoke programmes that elevate music, skillsets, ambition and outcomes. Recogising a specialist approach was necessary to enhance future learning opportunities, UD teamed up with UEL, our accreditation partner, to deliver Level 4 Courses that put artistry and production at the forefront. Thanks to our history, experience and music industry contact book, we’re confident students will find a more individually tailored experience when studying at UD’s new state-of-the-art Talent House HQ.
What are my progression options after I’ve completed the Level 4 Course? We recognise that not all people wish to commit to a full degree in 3 years. With this in mind, we have developed a flexible system that will meet your needs. At the end of this year (Cert HE) you can; 1. Progress to Degree completion with our validation partner, UEL. 2. Progress into industry with our support. Thanks to our extensive contact book, with confidece we can match you with bespoke opportunities to help further your career. Further career progression options include; session musician, recording artist, solo artist, producer, sound engineer, technician, teacher. 3. Progress or engage with other UD Programmes before you make the leap to industry. 4. Accelerator Development Funding, supported by PRS Foundation and Island Records, get your career off the ground with guidance and financial support.

would you like a tour or to find out more?
You’re invited to join us on our Level 4 Open Day, Monday January 20th 2025, from 2pm at Talent House. Reserve your space HERE and enjoy an exclusive workshop with top producer JB Made It (Finesse Foreva) or Malika Ferguson (artist) + much more.


For more information on UD’s Level 4 Courses, click HERE or email level4@udmusic.org.