Newcastle University

Music

This subject is offered by the School of Arts and Cultures.

Subject summary

The study of music falls into three broad categories – creative practice, music theory, and historical/cultural studies – and you are encouraged to participate in at least two of these three disciplines. These choices will give you a foundation in the study of musicology, and will also provide platforms for more advanced studies at honours level.

In Stages 2 and 3 you choose from a wider range of options, your degree of choice depending on the number of credits you elect to take in music. These options include modules in particular repertories (for example, world musics or folk music), particular historical periods (the enlightenment, the reformation) and particular issues.

There are also modules in applied subjects (composition, conducting, orchestration or analysis, for instance). In the final year you may choose performance, composition, a dissertation or a project as a major specialist study.

Pre-requisites

Students with A-Level Music or equivalent are preferred; those with other qualifications must satisfy the Subject Programme Director of their ability to profit from their intended modules and to complete them successfully. Students are strongly advised to gain competence in music theory to at least Associated Board Grade V level before starting Music within Combined Honours. If you intend to take practical studies the normal requirements are ABRSM Grade VIII (or equivalent) and completion of a short audition.

Examples of Music modules offered