Music Production

Music production is the craft and technical discipline of capturing, shaping, and presenting recorded sound, sitting at the intersection of musical creativity and technological expertise. Producers make fundamental decisions about how recordings sound, from the acoustic environment and the arrangement to the mixing and mastering that creates the final release. The role has evolved significantly with digital technology, and contemporary music production draws on software, hardware, and studio technique in ways that require both technical fluency and a well-developed musical ear.

At the University of Chester, this four-year programme includes a foundation year that builds the musical and technical knowledge needed before the main degree begins, making it accessible to students who want to develop stronger foundations in music or audio technology before tackling music production at degree level. The main programme develops your abilities as a producer through studio-based work and project-focused learning, covering digital audio workstations and recording technology, sound design, mixing and mastering, arrangement, and the creative and commercial dimensions of music production. The programme includes a year abroad, which gives you the opportunity to experience music production in a different cultural and creative context, broadening your artistic perspective and professional exposure.

Chester's music technology facilities support both technical and creative development throughout the degree.

Music production graduates work across the music and audio industries in roles including studio producer, mixing engineer, mastering engineer, and sound designer. The music industry itself, including record labels, recording studios, and independent artists' management teams, provides the most direct employment. The growing market for sync licensing, where music is produced or adapted for film, television, advertising, and games, provides opportunities for producers with versatile creative skills.

Broadcasting, podcast production, and post-production for video content draw others. Teaching music production in schools or further education is another route, and some graduates combine production work with performing or songwriting careers while others continue to postgraduate study in music technology or sonic arts.