Duration
8 months (2 trimesters) accelerated
Locations
Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane
Fees
Intake Dates

February, June, September

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International

CRICOS 081191F 

JMC welcomes from all over the world.
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Combining technical principles with pure creative expression, this hands-on course will help you begin to find your style as a creative composer, sharpen your production skills and create compositions that use inventive sounds and concepts. You will receive - at the core of your music production studies - weekly one-on-one private mentoring sessions to work on your production skills, songwriting, and work on developing a folio of original material and production work.

Touching on composition, arranging techniques, industry studies, music analysis, recording techniques and production skills – the Diploma incorporates the use of industry-standard software such as Pro Tools, Logix and Sibelius to create original music. Whether you’re a relative beginner or an experienced producer and you know your way around your DAW of choice, learn how to brainstorm ideas, enhance your understanding of music theory, overcome writer’s block, and express yourself more effectively in sound, words and music.

Why Study Music Production at JMC?

Use a wide range of hardware and software in your music creation and performance. Let the technology be your instrument!
Master multi-platform recording and production skills on stage and in the studio to create your own original music
Learn the art of self-promotion and relevant business skills for a sustainable career in the music industry

Technology & Facilities

Getting some time in the studio is a crucial part of your study at JMC and during the course you’ll be working with live and virtual instruments to craft your music. Designed for recording high-quality live performances, our songwriting suites and production studios feature ProTools, Logic, Ableton Live and Native Instruments, along with a variety of MIDI controllers, synthesisers, and top of the range microphones. JMC also has over 30 (national) fully fitted rehearsal studios and performance spaces equipped with digital and acoustic pianos, drum kits and an array of amplifiers.

Duration

When undertaken full-time, the Diploma of Music can be completed in 8 months (2 trimesters).

Upon successful completion of the Diploma qualification, students are eligible to continue their studies into the Bachelor Degree with advanced standing of two trimesters.

Students who have successfully completed 4 trimesters of the Bachelor programme may successfully graduate with an Associate Degree qualification.

Course Structure

The Diploma of Music with major in Music Production makes up the first 2 trimesters of the Music Production Bachelor's degree. At the successful completion of 2 trimesters, our modular course structure lets you graduate with an officially recognised diploma or continue seamlessly towards the industry standard Bachelor of Music with major in Music Production degree.

Click here to view the course structure →

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Credit Points: 6
Trimester 1

This unit provides an overview of Western contemporary popular music styles and the evolution in production of recorded and performed music since the 1950s. Students investigate major musical styles and periods from the 1950s to the present and develop the ability to define key characteristics of each. The unit introduces the broad themes of what constitutes popular music, and elements of music production, with an emphasis on musical events, key artists or industry figures, and institutions which contributed to the development of different musical movements. Students are exposed to the structure of the music industry, developing their understanding of the inter-relationship between the different sectors and key historical developments, and gain an appreciation of the music tradition within which they will work. The unit provides a context and preparation for the concepts which are explored further in subsequent units and is essential for future professional practice in the music industry. Basic academic writing skills and assignment planning will also be covered in this unit. 

Credit Points: 6
Trimester 2

The purpose of this unit is to give students an introduction to the music industry enabling a basic understanding of key sectors, roles and structures within it. It will also introduce students to copyright as it applies broadly to musical, literary, dramatic and artistic works and the functions and responsibilities of publishers and publishing companies. All areas relating to the application of copyright and the workings of publishing are considered. This unit also introduces music publishing contracts, distribution deals, and opportunities that are emerging with the development of digital technology and the practices of independent artists. It will also explore the fundamentals of band management, including use of an ABN and basic business principles.  

Credit Points: 6
Trimester 1

This unit introduces students to the capacity of music technology to enhance their potential as musicians, composers, and recording artists. Students will investigate the fundamental range and features of music technology available and gain understanding of its potential in the creative process. Students will learn the fundamentals of the technology underlying all stages of music creation and distribution. They will also investigate the operations and parts of a computer; set-up and operation of small music home recording systems; operation of industry standard software program (Pro Tools, Logic Pro, or Ableton Live) and program using Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI). Students will acquire (or reinforce) basic musicianship and keyboard skills. Academic writing skills with research and referencing methodology will also be covered as part of preparation for the first assessment task. 

Credit Points: 6
Trimester 2

This unit develops students’ conceptual knowledge and technical skills in composition and arranging – focusing on form, structure, harmonic and melodic development. Students will investigate techniques based on contemporary composition and writing music for screen and games. The classes will involve some analysis of influential songwriters, composers, arrangers, and their works. 

Following the first assessment, which presents a demo for an original piece of instrumental music as a stand-alone composition, or to suit a brief for screen or a game, the unit goes on to develop the students’ understanding of the process of music arranging. This begins by learning the fundamental concepts of arranging, including texture, dynamics, density, range, and basic harmonic voicing techniques. This will then extend to the musical features of instruments within a basic contemporary music ensemble of vocals, guitar, piano/keyboard, bass and drums. Then students can move on and further develop an understanding of writing for front line instruments - specific string, brass and reed instruments. Based on this knowledge of individual instruments, students will create a full notated arrangement of the original piece submitted for the first assessment, demonstrating an understanding of harmony, melody, rhythm, structure and stylistic devices.  This arrangement is then performed by professional musicians in the final weeks of trimester, and recorded as part of the final assessment submission.

Credit Points: 3
Trimester 1

This subject provides students with the technical and theoretical understanding of musical principles and theory to allow them to create, analyse and communicate concepts within contemporary music. Skills and understanding achieved in this subject create the foundation of any professional musician, which will be further developed during the duration of the course. This fundamental level of musicianship will eventually allow students to arrange music, compose successful compositions and help develop their technical musical skills on their chosen instrument.  

Credit Points: 3
Trimester 2

This unit continues developing the student’s knowledge and understanding of Music Theory, in preparation for musicianship at a professional level. Skills and understanding achieved in the unit will include knowledge of written theory, and extended understanding of notation and harmonic relationships at an intermediate level. This expanded level of musicianship will eventually allow students to compose or arrange successful compositions and help develop technical musical skills on a chosen instrument. This is the second of four units (Music Theory 1-4) that will build the students’ ability and knowledge within practical components of written music theory and increase their overall musical awareness. 

Credit Points: 3
Trimester 1

This subject provides development in the student’s aural musicianship skills. In undertaking this subject, students will gain an understanding of fundamental musical principles and strengthen their aural perception of musical elements. Skills and understanding achieved in this subject create the foundation of any professional musician, which will be further developed during the duration of the course. This fundamental level of musicianship will allow students to better appreciate music and explore sonic textures. Emphasis is given to three main area including rhythmic perception and performance, solfege, performance and recognition of harmonic and melodic elements.  

Credit Points: 3
Trimester 2

This unit builds on the musical concepts covered in Ear Training I, preparing the student for musicianship at a professional level. Skills developed in this unit will include aural recognition and reproduction of intervals, four-note chords, and scales. Students will also continue to develop their ability to sight sing diatonic melodies and perform intermediate rhythms. This enhanced level of musicianship will eventually allow students to analyse and compose successful compositions and continue to develop and employ technical skills on a chosen instrument. This is the second of four units that will build a student’s ability and knowledge within practical components of music theory and increase their overall musical awareness.

Credit Points: 3
Trimester 1

This unit involves a practical introduction to software-based recording systems with an emphasis on editing, arranging, and mixing using a digital audio workstation (DAW). You will learn about the fundamental hardware and software components in the mixing chain of audio production, as well as the function of an audio engineer and producer in preparing and completing a mix. This will take place across a series of one-on-one mentor-based lessons (1 x 30 min lesson per week) as the student prepares original works for submission in a folio. This unit also covers an introduction to signal processing in the context of live sound, recording, and plug-in based digital signal processing in the form of equalisation, dynamics processing and time modification effects. Basic songwriting and arranging principles are also applied, with an emphasis on developing originality in style and production elements.

Credit Points: 3
Trimester 2

This unit continues the practical introduction to software-based recording systems with an emphasis on editing, arranging and mixing using a digital audio workstation (DAW).  Following Production Major 1, students will learn about the fundamental hardware and software components in the mixing chain of audio production, as well as the function an audio engineer plays in preparing and completing a mix. This will take place across a series of one-on-one lessons (1 x 30 min lesson per week) with a production mentor. This unit also covers signal processing in the context of live sound, recording, and plug-in based digital signal processing in the form of equalisation, dynamics processing and time modification effects. 

Credit Points: 3
Trimester 1

Ensemble 1 - PSP205

It is essential to constantly develop as a member of a band and as an individual player to ensure a future musical career. The Ensemble sequence of units has been designed to provide the time and guidance required for the maturation of students’ performance abilities. In Ensemble 1, students will begin to develop their expertise in their principal instrument and awareness of repertoire through ensemble sessions (1 x 2-hour session per week). Stage performance technique as ‘stage presence’ is introduced and students are given the opportunity to explore, rehearse and develop musical skills in a group or ensemble environment. Students will be able to demonstrate their craft during two formal ensemble performances.   

To assist in the development of their professionalism, students will begin to develop planning skills and the ability to set specific, timely and achievable goals.  Attention is placed on learning basic communication and interaction skills. 

Collaborative Recording Project 1 - PSP206

In the first unit in the Collaborative Music Production sequence, students are introduced to the practices of collaborative music-making. For musicians developing a specialist skill as a creative technologist, replication of music elements via digital environments is an integral foundation skill for a digital creator. This unit includes aspects of group music creation and replication using software, piano skills via industry DAWs, and basic stylistic replication. Across a 1 x 2-hour supervised group class per week (and additional self-organised follow-up sessions), students will develop planning skills and the ability to set specific, timely and achievable goals. Attention is placed on learning basic communication and interaction skills. 

Credit Points: 3
Trimester 2

Ensemble 2 - PSP215

It is essential to constantly develop as a member of a band and as an individual player to ensure a future musical career. The Ensemble sequence of units has been designed to provide the time and guidance required for the maturation of students’ performance abilities. In Ensemble 2, students continue to develop their expertise in their principal instrument and awareness of repertoire through ensemble sessions (1 x 2-hour session per week).   

The focus for this Ensemble unit is on working with a new group of musicians to develop an extended repertoire for live and recorded performances.  Specialist tutors guide students through this process, from increasing technical proficiency, creativity and the development of their personal playing styles. Their stage persona also continues to be refined, with increasing emphasis on movement, stage dialogue, microphone technique, musicianship and stage image. To prepare for the live performance and live recordings, a number of rehearsal sessions are organised where students will be given ‘real time’ feedback from their tutors, as well as discussing and critiquing performances with their peers. 

Collaborative Recording Project 2 - PSP216

In Collaborative Recording Project 2, students are expected to apply superior knowledge proficiently at a level higher than they demonstrated in Collaborative Recording Project 1. To achieve this, students will be encouraged to explore different models for creative collaboration in the design and realisation of a group-based music technology project, with a focus on a model that allows them to best communicate with each other. The scope of the creative work in this unit is potentially limitless, however students will have to work together to articulate, refine and justify their creative choices so that the production achieved is a thought-provoking combination of musical interests, talent and skillsets. Students may also participate in a collaborative live recording assessment with student ensembles from PSP215 Ensemble 2, which will require the application of professional communication skills and sharing of knowledge and skills. 



Our Lecturers

James O'Brien

Head of Music (Melbourne)

James graduated with a Bachelor of Music (performance) from the Queensland Conservatorium in 2001 and immediately began work as a touring musician successfully traversing the jazz and popular music worlds. With modern piano trio Misinterprotato, James toured around Australia, the U.S., Canada and Japan and contributed to the group's first two releases through the Melbourne based Jazzhead label.

As singer and songwriter in Brisbane-Melbourne based indie-pop group The Boat People, James has released three albums, toured the U.S. 8 times (including two trips to SXSW), the U.K. twice and supported many outstanding Australian and International acts including Powderfinger, Crowded House and The Shins. The Boat People have had 8 songs playlisted on national radio station Triple J and in 2007 James signed a publishing deal with Ivy League/Mushroom which has seen his songs used extensively in television and film.

In 2012, James co-wrote and sung the breakout single "Half of It" for producer duo YesYou which received high rotation radio play on Triple J. James currently works as touring bass player with avant-folk group Machine Translations and songstress Kate Miller-Heidke. With his new group Darling James, he produced and music directed the "8 First Dates" event at the 2014 Melbourne Fringe which featured guests Ainslie Wills, Angie Hart (Frente), Jae Laffer (The Panics) and many others. Darling James are about to release their debut single and recently opened for legendary Australian group, The Church.

James O'Brien

Head of Music (Melbourne)

James graduated with a Bachelor of Music (performance) from the Queensland Conservatorium in 2001 and immediately began work as a touring musician successfully traversing the jazz and popular music worlds. With modern piano trio Misinterprotato, James toured around Australia, the U.S., Canada and Japan and contributed to the group's first two releases through the Melbourne based Jazzhead label.

As singer and songwriter in Brisbane-Melbourne based indie-pop group The Boat People, James has released three albums, toured the U.S. 8 times (including two trips to SXSW), the U.K. twice and supported many outstanding Australian and International acts including Powderfinger, Crowded House and The Shins. The Boat People have had 8 songs playlisted on national radio station Triple J and in 2007 James signed a publishing deal with Ivy League/Mushroom which has seen his songs used extensively in television and film.

In 2012, James co-wrote and sung the breakout single "Half of It" for producer duo YesYou which received high rotation radio play on Triple J. James currently works as touring bass player with avant-folk group Machine Translations and songstress Kate Miller-Heidke. With his new group Darling James, he produced and music directed the "8 First Dates" event at the 2014 Melbourne Fringe which featured guests Ainslie Wills, Angie Hart (Frente), Jae Laffer (The Panics) and many others. Darling James are about to release their debut single and recently opened for legendary Australian group, The Church.

Kemo Bunguric

Head of Music (Sydney)

Kemo’s teaching methods and influence reflect his own passion and extensive skills in composition, arranging and music technology, especially since he is a piano accordion virtuoso and an Australasian Accordion Champion.

By the age of 13, Kemo had learned early on how important it was to market one’s self as a musician, a concept which he aims to instil in his students. Kemo ensures that his students understand how to develop themselves as well-rounded musicians and teaches them the importance of being progressive within the industry.

Kemo Bunguric

Head of Music (Sydney)

Kemo’s teaching methods and influence reflect his own passion and extensive skills in composition, arranging and music technology, especially since he is a piano accordion virtuoso and an Australasian Accordion Champion.

By the age of 13, Kemo had learned early on how important it was to market one’s self as a musician, a concept which he aims to instil in his students. Kemo ensures that his students understand how to develop themselves as well-rounded musicians and teaches them the importance of being progressive within the industry.

Will Day

Head of Music, and Entertainment Business Management (Brisbane)

Gritty. Grounded. Heartfelt. A stand-out performer. From energetic tracks such as the single ‘Countrified’ to emotive ballads like ‘Simple Then’ (with Brooke Schubert), it’s no surprise that Will is making an impact on the country music scene.  2021 has been a wild ride, with single ‘Countrified’ added to iHeartCountry and KIX Country with the song reaching #12 on the KIX Country Charts and ‘Simple Then’ added to ABC Country, reaching #9 on the KIX Country Charts and #5 on the Countrytown Hot 50 Charts. Both tracks are included on Will’s debut album ‘Countrified’ and will be accompanied by a national tour reaching every state over the next 12 months.

Will has opened for the likes of Morgan Evans, Shannon Noll, Diesel, Hoodoo Gurus, The Baby Animals, The Black Sorrows, Col Finley and The Viper Creek Band while also appearing at  Australia’s most iconic country music festivals, including Tamworth Country Music Festival, Groundwater Country Music Festival and Gympie Muster.

With a genuine gift of storytelling, combined with compelling vocals and the ability to connect with a crowd, Will Day is fast becoming one of Australia’s premier rising country artists and one that will undoubtedly be around for many years to come.

Will Day

Head of Music, and Entertainment Business Management (Brisbane)

Gritty. Grounded. Heartfelt. A stand-out performer. From energetic tracks such as the single ‘Countrified’ to emotive ballads like ‘Simple Then’ (with Brooke Schubert), it’s no surprise that Will is making an impact on the country music scene.  2021 has been a wild ride, with single ‘Countrified’ added to iHeartCountry and KIX Country with the song reaching #12 on the KIX Country Charts and ‘Simple Then’ added to ABC Country, reaching #9 on the KIX Country Charts and #5 on the Countrytown Hot 50 Charts. Both tracks are included on Will’s debut album ‘Countrified’ and will be accompanied by a national tour reaching every state over the next 12 months.

Will has opened for the likes of Morgan Evans, Shannon Noll, Diesel, Hoodoo Gurus, The Baby Animals, The Black Sorrows, Col Finley and The Viper Creek Band while also appearing at  Australia’s most iconic country music festivals, including Tamworth Country Music Festival, Groundwater Country Music Festival and Gympie Muster.

With a genuine gift of storytelling, combined with compelling vocals and the ability to connect with a crowd, Will Day is fast becoming one of Australia’s premier rising country artists and one that will undoubtedly be around for many years to come.

Thomas Combes

Senior Audio Lecturer and Music Lecturer

Music has been a passion of Thomas' since he picked up his first guitar at the tender age of 10. Fast forward 17 years and Tom’s phenomenal finger-style playing, subtle tone and seasoned musical taste push the boundaries of what is possible on an acoustic guitar. His unique style of playing incorporates finger picking with simultaneous percussion on the soundboard to create a detailed wall of sound.

Tom has toured nationally as an in-demand session player, played on the main stage of several music festivals and has had his signature guitar playing recorded on several albums. These accomplishments have been complemented with his in-depth Audio Engineering and Production knowledge obtained through his degree in the Bachelor of Popular Music at Griffith.

Tom now resides in Brisbane where he lectures Audio classes and teaches guitar at JMC Academy.

Thomas Combes

Senior Audio Lecturer and Music Lecturer

Music has been a passion of Thomas' since he picked up his first guitar at the tender age of 10. Fast forward 17 years and Tom’s phenomenal finger-style playing, subtle tone and seasoned musical taste push the boundaries of what is possible on an acoustic guitar. His unique style of playing incorporates finger picking with simultaneous percussion on the soundboard to create a detailed wall of sound.

Tom has toured nationally as an in-demand session player, played on the main stage of several music festivals and has had his signature guitar playing recorded on several albums. These accomplishments have been complemented with his in-depth Audio Engineering and Production knowledge obtained through his degree in the Bachelor of Popular Music at Griffith.

Tom now resides in Brisbane where he lectures Audio classes and teaches guitar at JMC Academy.

Chloe Harrison

Ensemble Coordinator

Previously hailing from Sydney, Chloe Harrison is now a Melbourne-based singer-songwriter, producer, composer, and voice actor.

Chloe started her career young, starting voice acting at 6 years old, working on hundreds of advertising campaigns for TV, radio, and cinema, as well as two seasons of an animated series that was aired internationally. She later moved towards music, starting work as a session singer.


After completing her undergraduate degree in Composition and Production, she started her own production company, in the first year recording 3 albums, 4 EP’s and several singles for independent artists in both Sydney and Rural NSW. She then embarked on her post-graduate studies in composition, while lecturing, performing, and working as a producer.

More recently, she has moved into working as a composer, sound designer, and voice actor for video games, while continuously working on her own original music.

Chloe Harrison

Ensemble Coordinator

Previously hailing from Sydney, Chloe Harrison is now a Melbourne-based singer-songwriter, producer, composer, and voice actor.

Chloe started her career young, starting voice acting at 6 years old, working on hundreds of advertising campaigns for TV, radio, and cinema, as well as two seasons of an animated series that was aired internationally. She later moved towards music, starting work as a session singer.


After completing her undergraduate degree in Composition and Production, she started her own production company, in the first year recording 3 albums, 4 EP’s and several singles for independent artists in both Sydney and Rural NSW. She then embarked on her post-graduate studies in composition, while lecturing, performing, and working as a producer.

More recently, she has moved into working as a composer, sound designer, and voice actor for video games, while continuously working on her own original music.

David Skeet

Music Lecturer

David Skeet is an English born producer, mixer and songwriter currently residing in Sydney. His formative years were spent in the UK where he developed a broad and eclectic taste in music. Skeet lived and worked in Los Angeles for eight years as a producer/composer/recording artist with his own project God#9 with singer Cassie Giles and signed to Universal Music Publishing and Epic Records NY. As well composing music for theatre production, collaborating on songs and projects with Dave Stewart of Eurythmics fame, Andy Prieboy and Mark Goldenberg, Skeet also worked extensively on soundtracks and artist development.

Since returning to Sydney he has produced the critically acclaimed album Trigger for Sony artist Sandrine, produced recordings for Brooke Fraser, Kate Miller-Heidke, Angus and Julia Stone, The Church, Wons Phreely, Joel Sarakula, Ngaiire Joseph and has just completed tracks for Tiare Helberg’s Black Unicorn EP the follow up to the critically acclaimed Limited Edition EP, The Inconsolable Isolation Of Intimacy. Skeet has been undertaking more mixing projects and artist development in 2011 and will have albums completed for Wons Phreely and Jade Diary in early 2012.

David Skeet

Music Lecturer

David Skeet is an English born producer, mixer and songwriter currently residing in Sydney. His formative years were spent in the UK where he developed a broad and eclectic taste in music. Skeet lived and worked in Los Angeles for eight years as a producer/composer/recording artist with his own project God#9 with singer Cassie Giles and signed to Universal Music Publishing and Epic Records NY. As well composing music for theatre production, collaborating on songs and projects with Dave Stewart of Eurythmics fame, Andy Prieboy and Mark Goldenberg, Skeet also worked extensively on soundtracks and artist development.

Since returning to Sydney he has produced the critically acclaimed album Trigger for Sony artist Sandrine, produced recordings for Brooke Fraser, Kate Miller-Heidke, Angus and Julia Stone, The Church, Wons Phreely, Joel Sarakula, Ngaiire Joseph and has just completed tracks for Tiare Helberg’s Black Unicorn EP the follow up to the critically acclaimed Limited Edition EP, The Inconsolable Isolation Of Intimacy. Skeet has been undertaking more mixing projects and artist development in 2011 and will have albums completed for Wons Phreely and Jade Diary in early 2012.

Brad Jackson

Music Lecturer

A recording engineer, producer and musician, Brad has had extensive experience in a number of different roles throughout his career over the past 15 years.

Ten of those years were spent running a successful recording studio in St Kilda, where he had the opportunity to work with artists such as The Screaming Jets, James Reyne, award winning film composer Burkhard Dallwitz, as well as countless independent bands/artists.

Brad also has extensive experience on stage as a guitarist, bass player, singer, keyboardist and drummer. He has performed and recorded with a number of original acts, and has played countless gigs in the seedy underbelly known as the Melbourne cover gig scene.

These experiences have given Brad a wealth of knowledge to pass on to a future generation of upcoming musicians. In 2013 he took the opportunity to do just that and began lecturing at JMC Academy where he passes on his knowledge of what happens when music meets technology.

Brad Jackson

Music Lecturer

A recording engineer, producer and musician, Brad has had extensive experience in a number of different roles throughout his career over the past 15 years.

Ten of those years were spent running a successful recording studio in St Kilda, where he had the opportunity to work with artists such as The Screaming Jets, James Reyne, award winning film composer Burkhard Dallwitz, as well as countless independent bands/artists.

Brad also has extensive experience on stage as a guitarist, bass player, singer, keyboardist and drummer. He has performed and recorded with a number of original acts, and has played countless gigs in the seedy underbelly known as the Melbourne cover gig scene.

These experiences have given Brad a wealth of knowledge to pass on to a future generation of upcoming musicians. In 2013 he took the opportunity to do just that and began lecturing at JMC Academy where he passes on his knowledge of what happens when music meets technology.

Mitch Pattugalan

Music & Audio Lecturer

As a songwriter & producer, Mitch Pattugalan works closely with artists to create quality releases and recordings, writing & producing songs in a range of genres from his studio in Brisbane. With experience in many facets of the music industry including record production, songwriting, audio engineering, film score composition, live performance & artist mentoring, Mitch aims to impart his musical, studio & on-stage knowledge to his aspiring students in the creative industries. An R&B artist in his own right, he writes and performs his own music under the alias, Maximo.

In recent years, the vocalist & keys player has spent time recording at Platinum Sound Studios in New York, as well as in Los Angeles at Ableton’s Loop Summit for Music Makers. Locally, he continues to work on various music & film projects with emerging & established talents alike. After designing Maximo’s unique live show - which integrates sampling, triggering & live-looping alongside a full rhythm section – Mitch took up an opportunity to tour nationally as a musical director in this capacity, culminating in a showcase at the Electronic Music Conference in Sydney.

He is currently teaching at JMC Academy in Brisbane, where he has lectured in the Music & Audio departments since 2014, and was the Course Co-ordinator of the Certificate III in Screen & Media in Brisbane (2017-19).

Mitch Pattugalan

Music & Audio Lecturer

As a songwriter & producer, Mitch Pattugalan works closely with artists to create quality releases and recordings, writing & producing songs in a range of genres from his studio in Brisbane. With experience in many facets of the music industry including record production, songwriting, audio engineering, film score composition, live performance & artist mentoring, Mitch aims to impart his musical, studio & on-stage knowledge to his aspiring students in the creative industries. An R&B artist in his own right, he writes and performs his own music under the alias, Maximo.

In recent years, the vocalist & keys player has spent time recording at Platinum Sound Studios in New York, as well as in Los Angeles at Ableton’s Loop Summit for Music Makers. Locally, he continues to work on various music & film projects with emerging & established talents alike. After designing Maximo’s unique live show - which integrates sampling, triggering & live-looping alongside a full rhythm section – Mitch took up an opportunity to tour nationally as a musical director in this capacity, culminating in a showcase at the Electronic Music Conference in Sydney.

He is currently teaching at JMC Academy in Brisbane, where he has lectured in the Music & Audio departments since 2014, and was the Course Co-ordinator of the Certificate III in Screen & Media in Brisbane (2017-19).

Dion Connelly

Audio Engineering & Music Lecturer

With a diverse music career spanning 22 years, Dion has worked professionally as a drummer, live sound & studio engineer, music director, tour manager, theatre producer and educator. He has toured throughout the UK, Europe, USA, Australia and New Zealand in theatres and clubs, including London’s infamous jazz venue ‘Chelsea 606’. Festival highlights include Belgrade Music Festival (Serbia), Mathews Street Festival (Liverpool), Brecon Jazz Festival (Wales) and Australia’s own Blues on Broadbeach.

Originally from the UK, Dion gained extensive experience in tour management, theatre sound & lighting and musical leadership by producing ‘Jackson Live in Concert’ theatre show, which toured UK national theatres and venues throughout Europe from 2009 to 2015.

An experienced educator for 17 years, Dion brings international and multi facet music industry experience to his lectures and is passionate about developing student skills and connecting these to the current music industry.

Dion Connelly

Audio Engineering & Music Lecturer

With a diverse music career spanning 22 years, Dion has worked professionally as a drummer, live sound & studio engineer, music director, tour manager, theatre producer and educator. He has toured throughout the UK, Europe, USA, Australia and New Zealand in theatres and clubs, including London’s infamous jazz venue ‘Chelsea 606’. Festival highlights include Belgrade Music Festival (Serbia), Mathews Street Festival (Liverpool), Brecon Jazz Festival (Wales) and Australia’s own Blues on Broadbeach.

Originally from the UK, Dion gained extensive experience in tour management, theatre sound & lighting and musical leadership by producing ‘Jackson Live in Concert’ theatre show, which toured UK national theatres and venues throughout Europe from 2009 to 2015.

An experienced educator for 17 years, Dion brings international and multi facet music industry experience to his lectures and is passionate about developing student skills and connecting these to the current music industry.

Toni Lozanovski

Audio Lecturer

Toni has been involved with music since his early teens, playing guitar in various bands from rock, metal and acoustic folk.

Since graduating in 2006 Toni has produced and released music under various artists’ names, has been signed to Ministry Of Sound Australia, and is currently signed to Vicious Recordings.

He has remixed tracks for such artist as Avicii, Sebastian Drums, The Potbelleez, P-Money, Sidney, Samson, Jurgen Paape, Enur, Peyton, Sesa, Milk & Sugar, Dirty Vegas and many more.

Toni Lozanovski

Audio Lecturer

Toni has been involved with music since his early teens, playing guitar in various bands from rock, metal and acoustic folk.

Since graduating in 2006 Toni has produced and released music under various artists’ names, has been signed to Ministry Of Sound Australia, and is currently signed to Vicious Recordings.

He has remixed tracks for such artist as Avicii, Sebastian Drums, The Potbelleez, P-Money, Sidney, Samson, Jurgen Paape, Enur, Peyton, Sesa, Milk & Sugar, Dirty Vegas and many more.

Hayley Marsten

Audio Engineering, Entertainment Business and Music Lecturer

Hayley Marsten is a self-managed, independent singer-songwriter. Since graduating from a Bachelor of Creative Industries in Music & Entertainment Management at QUT with Distinction, she has successfully managed her career. Overseeing the release of multiple EPs and an Album, along with various tours and release campaigns. Hayley has crowdfunded over $30k for the recording of her music throughout her career and is has successfully secured multiple grants. She has been nominated multiple times at the Queensland Music Awards and Golden Guitars and is set to play the biggest country music festival in the southern hemisphere, CMC Rocks in 2023 and release her sophomore album.

Hayley Marsten

Audio Engineering, Entertainment Business and Music Lecturer

Hayley Marsten is a self-managed, independent singer-songwriter. Since graduating from a Bachelor of Creative Industries in Music & Entertainment Management at QUT with Distinction, she has successfully managed her career. Overseeing the release of multiple EPs and an Album, along with various tours and release campaigns. Hayley has crowdfunded over $30k for the recording of her music throughout her career and is has successfully secured multiple grants. She has been nominated multiple times at the Queensland Music Awards and Golden Guitars and is set to play the biggest country music festival in the southern hemisphere, CMC Rocks in 2023 and release her sophomore album.

Branko Pezo

Music + Audio Lecturer

Branko has completed a master in recording arts, and has a deep passion for recording and arranging, operates a music-recording studio and in partnership opened a private music school. His production and arrangements have carved a solid reputation for attention to detail and is noted for vocal production.
With T.V. appearances as well as local and international radio interviews and airplay to his credit, Branko's production has also inspired a remix achieving a top 5 in the Spanish charts.

Branko Pezo

Music + Audio Lecturer

Branko has completed a master in recording arts, and has a deep passion for recording and arranging, operates a music-recording studio and in partnership opened a private music school. His production and arrangements have carved a solid reputation for attention to detail and is noted for vocal production.
With T.V. appearances as well as local and international radio interviews and airplay to his credit, Branko's production has also inspired a remix achieving a top 5 in the Spanish charts.

This course was different - very diverse! There was the singing, stagecraft and learning how to audio produce. It's helped me tour the world with my music.
Timomatic (Tim Omaji) - ARIA Award nominee, Urban Artist, Singer, Songwriter, Dancer/Choreographer
Music Alumni
The way I have been taught music here has changed my life. I try to inspire my own music students in the same way.
Mickey Pye - Principal, Bathurst College of Music, Toyota Starmaker Winner 2015
Music Alumni
JMC Academy has provided me with the ability to recognise good opportunities, to not shy away from the challenging ones and to be adaptable to changes in the industry.
Amara Primero - Composer for Screen
Music Alumni

Bachelor of Music with major in Music Production

Seamlessly transition into the bachelor's degree with JMC Academy's modular and integrated courses. 

More on this course

Are you ready to take the next step toward your career in Music Production?

FAQs

A live audition is not a requirement of entry. What we do need to see is a demonstrated passion and/or experience in production and/or composition. This may involve simply being able to show samples of your work (lyrics, chord charts, or past recordings). Our staff will let you know if you need to prepare anything when you’re booking an interview.

No. For those with little or no theory background, we’ll teach you what you need to know from the ground up. We also offer a program during orientation week which provides a crash course to help you get started if theory isn’t your strong point.

This depends where your passion lies. Do you love performing and getting on stage in front of an audience, or do you prefer composing, creating, and telling stories through music? If you love making new music and composing new works in the studio then the production stream might be for you. As a Producer, you’ll still have the opportunity to participate in an ensemble and collaborate with other musicians, but you’ll also dig deep into contemporary production techniques and create plenty of new, original music.

At JMC we use 3 main DAW’s - Logic, ProTools, and Ableton Live. The software you use will depend on the work you are doing. Students also use Sibelius, Musition, and Auralia across the program. Our songwriting and production suites have a multitude of high-quality virtual instruments installed, and there are numerous pieces of hardware such as synthesizers, drum machines and microphones that you can also access as part of your production work.

JMC Academy is broadly recognised and accredited:

  • Registered Higher Education Provider.
  • Accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA)
  • Registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
  • Regulated by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).
  • Member of the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA).
  • Nationally recognised within the Australian Qualifications Framework.

Our strong industry links also ensure that JMC Academy qualifications are recognised within the creative industries. 

Yes. The JMC Academy is registered and regulated by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) which is Australia’s independent national regulator of the higher education sector, both public and private.

No, our courses are hands on and practical. Students are required to attend classes to receive ongoing mentorship, learn new skills and work with the equipment provided. We do encourage our students to use online study resources, however our courses would not be as immersive as they are without the practical component.