Master of Music (MMus)
On this page you will find:
- An introduction to this degree
- A course structure summary
- A list of our current entry requirements for this degree
Introduction
The MMus can be studied over 12 months full time or over 24 months part time. This is a programme in creative musical practice, covering one or more of the following areas:
- composition
- performance
- studio-based work
- improvisation
- mixed-media
The styles or repertories covered during your study can range across the full spectrum of early, classical, avant-garde, folk, popular and world music genres.
The major focus is on creative project work. It can be seen equally well as a foundation for the PhD or as a self-standing qualification in creative practice. It can also be seen as the culmination of a first degree focused on creative musical practice. It is possible to choose modules in such a way that you specialise in composition, performance or studio-based work; alternatively, you can mix between these areas. You can also include more theoretical or musicological modules if you wish.
- To read more about composition at ICMuS, click here.
- To read more about performance at ICMuS, click here.
Although the MMus provides an excellent foundation for students going on to a research degree, it is also a valuable qualification in its own right and, for some students, may be regarded as adding a further dimension to their undergraduate degree, in a 3+1 model. Indeed, as the standard three-year undergraduate degree becomes ever more ubiquitous in the UK, more and more students are treating masters degrees as a way of adding value to their first degree. This practice is also in line with the so-called Bologna Accord.
| Course Structure |
| Compulsory Modules: |
| Research Training for Creative Practice (30 credits) |
| Elective Modules: |
| Dissertation (60 credits) |
| Creative Projects (30, 60, 90 or 120 credits) |
| Live Electronic Performance (30 credits) |
| Improvisation for Creative Practice (30 credits) |
| Performance Practice (30 credits) |
| Instrumental Composition (30 credits) |
| Studio Composition (30 credits) |
| MAX/MSP Programming (30 credits) |
| Modules from the MA in Music or the MA in Music and Education |
- The core of the programme is a set of Creative Projects - compositions, performances, etc - (up to 120 credits) to include a project commentary that situates your work in the wider context
Students of performance also receive one-to-one tuition with one or more of ICMuS's specialist tutors, who are all top-level professional musicians, working in a wide spectrum of genres from classical to jazz to folk and traditional, North Indian music, and many kinds of popular music.
Entry Requirements
Normally a 2:1 Honours degree or higher in music or other arts or humanities subjects, or an international equivalent. However, we may take other qualifications and other experience into account. For international students, if your first language is not English we require IELTS 6.5 with 6.5 in writing, or equivalent. If you need extra tuition to meet English language requirements the University provides a Pre-Sessional Intensive English programme
Performers need to have a degree level qualification or be of an equivalent standard. Audition is by recording, or in person.
We consider all applications on merit. In any case, we advise that you approach a member of staff either by phone or email to discuss your application.