Performance, BMus

Performance, BMus at Brunel University London is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed for students passionate about developing their skills as versatile and expressive musicians. The course offers a unique blend of practical performance training, academic study, and opportunities for creative collaboration, preparing graduates for diverse careers in the music industry, education, and beyond. Throughout the program, students engage in intensive instrumental and vocal training, participate in solo and ensemble performances, and explore music theory, history, and contextual studies to deepen their understanding of musical styles and eras. The curriculum is structured to foster individual artistic development while encouraging innovation and experimentation in performance. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated rehearsal rooms, recording studios, and performance halls, enabling them to hone their craft in a professional environment. Brunel’s experienced faculty, comprising practicing musicians and academics, provide personalized mentorship and feedback, guiding students toward realizing their artistic potential. The program also emphasizes the development of transferable skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, and communication, which are essential for success in the competitive music industry. Opportunities for live performance are integral to the program, with students regularly participating in concerts, festivals, and collaborative projects both on and off-campus. The university’s strong links with industry professionals, conservatoires, and local arts organizations offer valuable networking opportunities and pathways for internships and further study. Graduates of the Performance, BMus program leave with a well-rounded portfolio of performances, recordings, and academic achievements, equipped for careers as soloists, ensemble members, session musicians, music educators, or to pursue postgraduate study. Brunel’s vibrant creative community and supportive environment foster artistic growth, inspiring students to explore their full potential and make meaningful contributions to the musical world.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 13000 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The degree course is modular. Modules are worth 20 or 40 credits and you must complete 120 credits for each year of your degree programme. All music students take the same modules in Year 1. In years 2 and 3 you will choose a performance module (classical/experimental or pop/jazz - in year 2 you can choose both). You will also have a wide range of optional modules to choose from; some of these topics can be taken at either Level 2 or Level 3. The final year project requires you to carry out in-depth research on any related topic of particular interest to you – many performance students choose to do a performance-based project.

Typical Modules

Level 1

• Performance I (20)

• Musicianship (20)

• Materials of Music (20)

• Musicology I: histories, forms and structures (20)

• Sound Recording & Sonic Arts (20)

• Composition I (20)

Level 2 Core

• Performance II (Classical or Experimental) (20) and/or Performance II (Popular Music or Jazz) (20)

Level 2 Options

• Musicology II: genres (20)

• Composition II (20)

• Sonic Arts II (40)

• Conducting and Realisation (20)

• Instrumentation and Orchestration (20)

• Music and Perception (20)

• Popular Music Studies (20)

• Stylistic Improvisation (20)

• Free Improvisation (20)

• Jazz and Pop arranging (20)

• Professional Development (20)

Level 3 Core

• Performance III (Classical or Experimental) (40) or Performance III (Popular Music or Jazz) (40)

• Special Project (40)

Level 3 Options

• Musicology III: towards the new music (40)

• Composition III (40)

• Sonic Arts III (40)

• Conducting and Realisation (20)

• Instrumentation and Orchestration (20)

• Music and Perception (20)

• Popular Music Studies (20)

• Stylistic Improvisation (20)

• Free Improvisation (20)

• Jazz and Pop arranging (20)

• Professional Development (20)

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5 CAE score : 60(Grade C) TOEFL paper-based test score : 580 TOEFL iBT® test : 92

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

Requirements

• GCE A-level BBB, including Music at grade B.

• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma DDM in a related subject.

• BTEC Level 3 Diploma DD in a related subject with an A-level Music at grade B.

• BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma D in a related subject with A-levels grade BB including Music.

• International Baccalaureate Diploma 32 points in Higher Level 5 in Music.

• Access to Higher EducationDiploma Complete and pass a related subject Access course with 45 credits at level 3 and 15 credits at level 2 with Merits in all units. Applicants who are not taking A-level music or grade 7/8 music but are musically inclined may be asked to take a short test.

All candidates without A-level Music at grade B or equivalent or Grade 8 ABRSM, LCMM or Trinity College will be required to pass a brief entrance test, details of which will be provided upon application.

GCSE Mathematics grade C and GCSE English grade C are also required.

Please check our Admissions pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants as well as our full GCSE requirements and accepted equivalencies in place of GCSE’s.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS: 6.5 (min 5.5 in all areas)

• Pearson: 58 (51 in all subscores)

• BrunELT: 65% (min 55% in all areas)

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 Brunel University.

Performance, BMus at Brunel University London offers students a comprehensive education in music performance, encompassing a wide range of styles and genres. The program is designed to develop both technical proficiency and artistic expression, preparing graduates for careers as professional performers, educators, or further academic study. Students have access to state-of-the-art practice facilities, recording studios, and performance venues, enabling them to hone their skills in a professional environment. The curriculum includes individual lessons, ensemble work, jazz studies, composition, and music technology, providing a well-rounded education tailored to each student's interests and career goals. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to participate in concerts, masterclasses, and workshops led by distinguished guest artists and industry professionals, enriching their learning experience and fostering industry connections. The program emphasizes practical application alongside theoretical study, ensuring students gain real-world performance experience. Brunel’s close proximity to London’s vibrant music scene offers numerous opportunities for internships, collaborations, and live performances. The faculty comprises experienced musicians and educators committed to nurturing talent and guiding students through their musical journey. The BMus Performance program aims to cultivate versatile, confident performers capable of adapting to the dynamic demands of the music industry. Graduates leave equipped not only with advanced performance skills but also with vital professional skills including self-promotion, entrepreneurship, and collaborative working. Brunel University London’s collaborative environment fosters creativity, innovation, and independent thinking, making it an ideal place for aspiring musicians to develop their craft and launch successful careers in the music industry.