For those interested in the popular/rock music industry, The Need to Know Guide to Careers in Music, by Jackie Hayden and Johnny Lappin (published by Foxrock Music Productions, £9.99), runs alphabetically through more than 70 careers associated with the industry. The strength of this book lies in the insider descriptions of the jobs themselves. There is little information on courses in the Post Leaving Cert, private or third-level sectors.
At PLC level, Ballyfermot Senior College, in particular, has a range of courses that offers students hands-on experience as a qualification. Courses include a higher national diploma in music management, a HND in music technology (sound, operations and audio performance) and a national diploma in music performance (rock school). This latter course is aimed at musicians, bass players, drummers, guitar players, piano, keyboard players, singers and songwriters. It is suitable for both solo acts and groups. (You will need five passes in the Leaving Cert or equivalent and should be prepared to audition and to supply a cassette or CD demonstrating your musical ability.)
Guidance counsellor Julie Murphy notes that is a tough industry to break into. However, for those who do, the rewards are usually good. The college also offers a higher national diploma in traditional music performance.
