Music

Description

A Joint Honours degree programme involves the study of two subjects to Honours degree level. If you study a subject in a Joint Honours programme, you work at exactly the same level and to the same academic standard as students taking that subject in a Single Honours programme. Joint Honours students are simply required to choose fewer topics from the range of options available in each half of the programme.

If you come to Birmingham to study music you will be taught musicology (music as an academic discipline), performance and composition. You will have access to outstanding facilities and benefit from a rich tradition of music-making.
Our facilities include practice rooms, electro-acoustic music studios, early instruments, computer workstations and the Barber Institute Concert Hall and Library. Our musical traditions include the University Music Societys choirs, orchestras (including two symphony orchestras) and jazz, wind and brass bands; the Barber operas and international concert series; the students own summer festival; our New Music Ensemble; and the annual Birmingham Early Music Festival.
Our links with the city and its rich musical culture include instrumental lessons for all our students at the Birmingham Conservatoire; the Birmingham Contemporary Music Group as ensemble in association; University concerts held in the internationally acclaimed Symphony Hall; and access to open rehearsals from the likes of Thomas Adès, Sakari Oramo and Sir Simon Rattle. Instrumental and vocal lessons may also be taken through the Centre for Early Music Performance and Research. Students will additionally benefit from state-of-the-art facilities in the new Bramall Music Building.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

First year

Music: You study Historical Musicology, Instrumental/Vocal Performance and Composition (both paper and studio) as foundation courses. Everyone participates in ensemble performance, and students also take one module outside the main discipline.

Second year

Music: In this year you have a very wide choice of optional modules, ranging from aspects of western art music, through to modules such as Sound Recording, Classical and Romantic Performance Practice, Film Music, and Analysis. There are optional modules in Individual Performance (including fully funded instrumental lessons) and Music History.

Final year

Music: While taking more of the optional modules, you can specialise in solo performance by giving a recital, in composition by preparing a portfolio, or in musicology by writing a dissertation, or in any two of these.

Career opportunities

Our degrees offer a general grounding in music and unmatched scope for developing special interests and fulfilling individual potential. As well as preparing you for a career in music, they enable you to develop transferable skills that will be of value in many other employment fields.

English Language Requirements

CAE score : 80(Grade A)

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Number of A levels required: 3

Typical offer: AAB-ABB

International Baccalaureate: 34-36 points including Music at HL.

Required subjects and grades: A level Music grade A; Music Technology is accepted but not as a substitute for Music A level

Additional information:

Other qualifications are considered.

Keyboard to at least ABRSM Grade VI is useful but not essential (candidates without this will not be disadvantaged).

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Birmingham.

The University of Birmingham offers a comprehensive Music program designed to provide students with a broad and in-depth understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of music. The program aims to develop students' analytical, performance, composition, and research skills. It combines rigorous academic study with practical training, including opportunities for performance, studio work, and composition, to cultivate well-rounded musicianship. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated practice rooms, recording studios, and concert halls, facilitating a lively musical environment. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, such as music theory, history, ethnomusicology, and music technology, allowing students to explore diverse musical traditions and contemporary practices. Emphasis is placed on developing critical listening and interpretive skills, enabling students to evaluate and perform music at a high standard. The program encourages active engagement through performance opportunities, ensembles, and collaborations with peers and visiting artists. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in various music-related fields, including performance, teaching, composition, musicology, arts management, and media. The program is taught by experienced academic staff who are active researchers and performers, ensuring students receive current and relevant knowledge. Additionally, students benefit from links with local music organizations, opportunities for internships, and participation in concerts and academic events. The University of Birmingham's vibrant cultural environment supports ongoing artistic development, fostering a community where students can thrive as musicians and scholars. Overall, the Music program at the University of Birmingham offers a stimulating environment for aspiring musicians and music scholars to develop their skills and knowledge in a supportive and dynamic setting.