Music

Music at Durham University offers an exceptional opportunity for students to explore the rich and diverse world of music through a comprehensive undergraduate program. Our courses combine rigorous academic study with practical performance, composition, and research components, providing students with a well-rounded education in music theory, history, ethnomusicology, and contemporary practices. The program is designed to develop students' analytical skills, creative abilities, and understanding of musical contexts across different cultures and periods. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated practice rooms, recording studios, and performance venues, enabling them to hone their skills in a supportive environment. The curriculum includes core modules in music theory, harmony, counterpoint, and musicology, as well as options allowing students to specialise in areas such as performance, composition, or music technology. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to participate in a vibrant extracurricular scene, including ensembles, bands, and student-led projects, fostering a dynamic community of musicians and scholars. The program also offers opportunities for internships, collaborations, and research projects, preparing graduates for careers in education, performance, music production, and beyond. Our talented staff are active researchers and performers, providing students with world-class teaching and mentorship. Durham University’s Music program emphasizes an inclusive and stimulating environment, supporting students to develop their unique musical voices and critical perspectives. Whether pursuing a passion for performance, composition, or academic study, students will gain the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed in the diverse field of music. Join us to explore your musical potential and become part of a vibrant academic community committed to excellence and innovation in music education.

Content

The MA Music programme will normally facilitate study of the following areas of specialism:

• Musicology
• Ethnomusicology
• Composition (acoustic and electro-acoustic)
• Performance

In addition, other options typically available have included:

• British Music
• Indian Music
• Music, Mind, and Culture
• World Music Analysis
• Audiovisual Documentation and Analysis
• Choral conducting (with special focus on Anglican church music)

Programme structure

Students will choose modules from sections A, B, C, and D below:

A. Major project, weighted at 60 credits (a dissertation, a public recital, or a portfolio of compositions/orchestrations and arrangements – depending on your chosen area of specialism)

B. A 30-credit module linked to your chosen area of specialism

C. Two compulsory core 30-credit modules embedding research training and engaging with major intellectual issues attendant on all subject areas

D. An additional 30 credits of Music undergraduate modules/selected undergraduate OR postgraduate modules offered by another department OR another related specialism-specific module from list B, subject to approval of the Board of Studies in Music.

Example: MA with specialism in Musicology

A. A 12,000-word dissertation on a musicological topic weighted at 60 credits

B. 30-credit module ‘Contemporary Musicology’

C. Compulsory core 30-credit modules, ‘Core Research Seminars’ and ‘Research Methods and Resources’

D. 30 credits of Music undergraduate modules/selected undergraduate OR postgraduate modules offered by another department OR another related specialism-specific module from list B

Core Modules

• Research Methods and Resources
• Core Research Seminars

And

The following specialism-specific modules will be offered every year: 

• Contemporary Musicology
• Ethnomusicology in Practice and Theory
• Compositional Techniques
• Music Performance. 

Optional Modules

Optional modules in previous years have included:

• British Music
• Music Analysis
• Practice and Theory of Choral Conducting
• Advanced Organ Studies
• Electronic Music
• Orchestration and Arranging
• Indian Music
• World Music Analysis
• Music, Mind, and Culture
• Audiovisual Documentation and Analysis. 

Subject requirements, level and grade

In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:

• 2:1 (or equivalent) from an undergraduate Music degree
• Evidence of prior specialisation in principal proposed area of study (e.g. applicants wishing to specialise in performance would be expected to have undertaken a major project in performance at undergraduate level and gained a 2:1 mark or equivalent for it)

Preferred Tests:

a. IELTS: 6.5 (no component under 6.0)

b. TOEFL iBT (internet based test): 92 (no component under 23)

c. Cambridge Proficiency (CPE): Grade C

d. Cambridge Advanced (CAE): Grade A

e. Cambridge IGCSE First Language English at Grade C or above [not normally acceptable for students who require a Tier 4 student visa]

f. Cambridge IGCSE English as a Second Language at Grade B or above [not normally acceptable for students who require a Tier 4 student visa]

g. GCSE English Language at grade C or above

h. Pearson Test of English (overall score 62 (with no score less than 56 in each component))

Alternative accepted tests when those listed in a.-h. above are unavailable to the applicant (if the applicant requires a Tier 4 visa to study, advice on the suitability of these alternatives must be sought from the Student Recruitment and Admissions Office):

i. Certificate of Attainment (Edexcel)

j. GCE A-levels (AQA, CIE, Edexcel, CCEA, OCR, WJEC) at grade C or above in an essay based, humanities or social science subject from the following list: History, Philosophy, Government and Politics, English Language, English Literature, Geography, Religious Studies, Economics, Business Studies, Law and Sociology. Modern or Classical Languages are not acceptable in meeting this requirement.

k. International Baccalaureate with a minimum of grade 5 in Standard Level English or a minimum of grade 5 if taken at Higher Level.

l. NEAB (JMB) Test in English (Overseas)

m. Singapore Integrated Programme (SIPCAL) at grade C or above in an essay based, humanities or social science subject from the following list: History, Philosophy, Government and Politics, English Language, English Literature, Geography, Religious Studies, Economics, Business Studies, Law and Sociology. Modern or Classical Languages are not acceptable in meeting this requirement.

n. Singapore Polytechnic Diploma and Advanced Diplomas at GPA 3.0 or above

o. WAEC and NECO Grade B3 or above from Nigeria and Ghana

The Music programme at Durham University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Undergraduate students can take advantage of the standard tuition fee structure, which varies for home and international students. Home students may be eligible for financial assistance through government schemes such as Student Loans, which cover tuition fees and living costs, depending on eligibility criteria. International students are responsible for their own tuition fee arrangements and are encouraged to seek scholarships, sponsorships, or external funding sources. Durham University provides several scholarships specifically for music students, including competitive bursaries and excellence awards aimed at supporting talented individuals regardless of financial background. These scholarships often require separate applications and are awarded based on merit or need. Additionally, students are advised to explore external funding opportunities, including arts and music grants from charitable organizations and cultural foundations. The university also provides guidance on part-time work opportunities, both on and off campus, which can help students finance their studies and gain valuable professional experience. For postgraduate programmes, financial support options include research council funding, university scholarships, and direct sponsorships from external agencies. Durham University's strong links with local arts organizations sometimes offer internships and paid opportunities that contribute to students' income. It is recommended that prospective students contact the university's Financial Aid Office for detailed, up-to-date information on available funding options, application procedures, and deadlines. Managing finances effectively is an important aspect of university life, and the university provides comprehensive financial planning resources to assist students in budgeting and planning their expenditure during their studies.

Music at Durham University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the art, history, and theory of music, combined with practical performance opportunities. The program is designed to develop students' analytical skills, theoretical understanding, and practical musicianship, preparing them for careers in a variety of musical fields. Students have the opportunity to study a broad range of musical genres, periods, and styles, from classical to contemporary, ensuring a well-rounded musical education. The university provides access to excellent facilities, including dedicated practice rooms, performance spaces, and recording studios, enabling students to hone their skills in a professional environment.

The course structure typically includes core modules in music theory, history, ethnomusicology, and composition, alongside optional modules allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests, such as world music, electronic music, and performance. Instruction is delivered by a team of experienced academic staff with expertise across diverse musical disciplines. In addition to academic coursework, students participate in concerts, workshops, and masterclasses to gain practical experience and connect with professional musicians.

Durham's vibrant music scene and its location close to cultural hubs like Newcastle provide ample opportunities for students to engage with live performances and industry professionals. The program also emphasizes research skills, encouraging students to undertake independent projects and dissertations that contribute to current musical scholarship. As part of their training, students are encouraged to develop skills in music technology, critical listening, and improvisation.

Graduates from the Durham music program often pursue careers in performance, composition, music education, musicology, or arts administration, with many continuing their studies at postgraduate level. The university's strong alumni network and industry connections support students in gaining employment after graduation. Overall, Durham's Music program aims to cultivate both the artistic talent and academic rigor necessary for a successful career in the diverse world of music.