Master of Music

Applications: via CUKAS, code 801F (2 year MMus Solo Performance); 820F (2 year MMus Composition); 805F (1 year MMus Solo Performance); 823F (1 year MMus Composition); 811F (1 year MMus Chamber Music); 841F (1 year MMus Orchestral Studies)

The Master of Music degree provides students with advanced level training in the skills, knowledge and understanding of music-making essential for a career as a professional performer, conductor or composer.

You can customise your course by choosing from a range of vocational and academic options which complement Principal Study tuition and performance activities. A number of the electives within the MMus programme also provide excellent preparation should you decide to progress to higher-level performance studies, such as the MPhil/PhD programme or the International Artist Diploma.

The programme consists of two strands:

Principal Study tuition, which is delivered through intensive ono-to-one sessions, masterclasses, group classes, lectures and workshops.

Options, which include a significant choice of specialisms to enable you to develop a portfolio of practical, vocational and research-based areas of activity relevant to your own professional development. Chamber music, operatic excerpts, orchestral experience, lecture recital, performance: theory and practice, and preparation for research options in musicology and music psychology are among the options on offer.

Click on the link below for an overview of the options currently available on the PGDip and MMus courses, this is an indicative list and may be subject to change, MMus and PGDip Options 2010 .

There are four specialist Principal Study pathways:

• Solo Performance equips students with the breadth and depth of musical experience required for a career as a professional instrumentalist, singer, collaborative pianist or conductor. Training covers advanced level techniques, styles and practices of musical performance, and the development of critical and reflective approaches to relevant repertoire.
• Composition prepares students for a career in musical composition by building on skills such as compositional craft and technique, and creative conception. As the programme progresses, students will explore areas including interpretative and reflective skills, approaches to different repertoire, and enhanced presentation and communication.
• Chamber Music explores the wide range of skills and knowledge essential to mastering chamber music performance at a professional level. Students receive training in areas such as listening skills, group improvisation and quick-study techniques, which are delivered within individual and group classes, coached ensemble activities and masterclasses.
• Orchestral Studies is aimed at students preparing for a career as a professional orchestral musician. In addition to specialist orchestral skills classes and workshops, students gain invaluable hands-on learning experiences through participation in the RNCM's programme of orchestral performance.