Postgraduate Diploma: Advanced Studies

Dalcroze in Context

This module explores how movement relates to music perception, learning, and performance within the field of Dalcroze studies. It connects Dalcroze practice with music education, therapy, and psychology. Students engage with a wide range of concepts and undertake a student‑led research project on an aspect of Dalcroze practice, theory, or history. It is recommended as a complement to Dalcroze Eurhythmics and Dynamic Rehearsal. Assessment is by written work.

Dissertation – Major/Minor

Students undertake original research under specialist supervision in artistic research, musicology, music psychology, or music education. The module supports reflection on musical practice as a performer or composer. Assessment is by a 5,000‑word dissertation (minor) or 10,000-word dissertation (major).

Research Lecture Recital

This module offers an in-depth exploration of the necessary skills for delivering an original lecture recital. Students are encouraged to pursue topics relevant to them as performers and composers, with practical emphasis on a range of delivery styles, supporting materials, and techniques of public speaking. Assessment is by 30-minute lecture recital and annotated bibliography (1,000 words).

Research Methods in Artistic Research, Music Education, Music Psychology or Musicology

This module introduces core concepts in each discipline. Students explore practice‑led research, empirical music‑psychology methods, historical and theoretical approaches within music education, and a broad range of musicological topics. Additional cohort lectures, plus opportunities to meet PhD students and visiting researchers, support preparation for future doctoral study. Assessment is by written work, including two PhD‑style proposals.

Repertoire Project

This module supports development of a final recital or portfolio by guiding students through writing a professional‑quality programme note and engaging with relevant scholarship. Assessment is by written work.

Accompaniment

This module, not available to Principal Study Accompanists, offers regular performance opportunities and feedback. Content includes duo sonatas, song, orchestral reductions, and opera, with techniques for working in varied duo partnerships. Assessment is by practical test.

Arrangement

Open to all students upon successful application, this module provides tuition in arranging works for designated ensembles. Students may have their work performed or recorded by in‑house ensembles. Assessment is by portfolio with commentary.

Aural Analysis and Critique

This module focuses on developing the ability to construct and convey spontaneous analysis without the aid of a score (deep listening), and to verbalize and defend this analysis in discussion with peers. Assessment is by a viva voce.

Composition Elective

Open to all except principal study composers. Entry is via submission of previous work. Tuition develops technical, interpretative, and communication skills. Assessment is by portfolio.

Conducting Elective

This module develops clear and effective conducting technique. Assessment includes a self‑evaluation exercise, practical portfolio, and a final class performance.

Contemporary Songwriting

This module provides tools and strategies to build a continually developing songwriting and composition toolkit, using both conventional and unconventional approaches.

Cross-cultural Approaches to Musicianship

This module examines how different musical traditions, practices, and ways of learning across cultures shape our understanding and development of musicianship.

Dalcroze Eurhythmics and Dynamic Rehearsal

This practical course explores how music is experienced and expressed physically through movement. Students engage in technical, expressive, and creative work, with opportunities to apply these skills to repertoire. Assessment includes practical exercises and a written portfolio.

Electronic Experimental Ensemble

This ensemble combines pop‑trained and classically trained musicians to explore 21st‑century chamber performance practices. Through a collaborative workshop environment, students investigate influential movements such as Wandelweiser, Japanese noise, post‑free improvisation, and the European avant‑garde. Assessment includes group performance and individual viva voce.

Freelance Musician

This module builds entrepreneurial skills for a portfolio career. Workshops cover musicianship, programming, marketing, recording, business planning, and outreach project development. Assessment is via video project submission and viva voce.

Musicianship for Instrumentalists

This module is designed to sharpen aural perception, rhythmic security, and creative freedom through structured improvisation. It helps advanced performers master the underlying language of music.

Musicianship for Vocalists: Consort Singing

This module develops consort‑singing techniques across a range of styles, from early polyphony to contemporary repertoire. Students may apply as pre‑formed groups or individually. Assessment is through a group performance featuring prepared repertoire and quick‑study elements.

Practical Pedagogy
This module equips students with practical skills for teaching musicians of varying abilities, including musical observation, reflection, and communication. Delivered in partnership with the local education service, it includes placement opportunities. Assessment is by portfolio (including video documentation) and viva voce.

Professional Audition

This module provides advanced training for professional auditions, addressing repertoire preparation, advanced reading skills, stylistic expectations, interpretation, and the psychological demands of auditioning. Assessment is by portfolio and viva voce.

Professional Placement

Students undertake mentored work experience in contexts such as orchestral professional experience schemes, arts administration, music and health, or recording. Placements can be individually negotiated. Existing partnerships include the Hallé, BBC Philharmonic, Manchester Camerata, and RNCM departments. Assessment is by portfolio.

Small Ensemble Performance

(Chamber Music / Small Jazz Ensemble / Historical Performance Ensemble)

This module develops the skills, repertoire knowledge, and ensemble techniques essential for professional‑level small‑ensemble performance. It includes ensemble coaching, focused classes, workshops, and intensive private study. Assessment is through performance and a written rationale.