MA in Classical String Performance

The MA in Classical String Performance at the University of Limerick offers a specialized curriculum for string musicians seeking advanced training and professional development. It focuses on refining technical mastery, interpretation, and musicianship in classical string instruments.

Curriculum: The curriculum emphasizes intensive practice sessions, masterclasses, ensemble performance, music theory, orchestral repertoire, chamber music, and solo performance opportunities. It blends practical training with theoretical studies.

Research Focus: Students have the opportunity to engage in research related to string performance, exploring areas such as historical performance practices, interpretation techniques, comparative studies of different classical music periods, or the evolution of string instruments.

Industry Engagement: University of Limerick encourages industry engagement by organizing workshops, inviting renowned musicians for masterclasses, providing performance opportunities, and facilitating connections with orchestras or musical organizations.

Global Perspective: The MA in Classical String Performance program incorporates a global perspective by exploring diverse musical traditions, international performance practices, and the influence of different cultural contexts on classical string music.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Typically, a minimum of 60% or above in previous academic qualifications is required for admission.

English Language Proficiency: 

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0, with no individual section below 6.0.
• TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 90 with a minimum of 21 in each section.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): Overall score of 61, with a minimum of 59 in each communicative skill.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Overall score of 120.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

The University of Limerick (UL) is supporting the academic aspirations of international students by offering various scholarship opportunities that recognize academic excellence, talent, and diverse backgrounds.

Merit-Based Scholarships: UL provides a range of merit-based scholarships for international students based on academic achievements, varying from undergraduate to postgraduate levels. These scholarships are awarded to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance.

Country-Specific Scholarships: The university also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships aim to encourage diversity and attract exceptional talent from different parts of the world, providing financial support to deserving candidates.

Sports Scholarships: UL values sporting achievements and offers scholarships to international students who excel in sports. These scholarships support athletes pursuing their academic goals while representing the university in various sporting events.

Research Scholarships: For postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs, UL provides research scholarships to support their academic endeavors. These scholarships assist in covering tuition fees, living expenses, and research-related costs.

Graduates from the MA in Classical String Performance program at the University of Limerick possess refined skills that open doors to various career paths within the classical music domain and beyond.

Orchestral Musician: Graduates can pursue careers as professional orchestral musicians, performing in renowned orchestras or ensembles globally.

Solo Performer/Recitalist: Opportunities exist for graduates to establish careers as soloists, performing concertos or solo recitals in prestigious venues worldwide.

Chamber Musician: Graduates may specialize in chamber music, collaborating with ensembles or forming their chamber groups, performing in festivals, and chamber music series.

Music Educator/Instructor: Careers in education involve teaching string instruments at music conservatories, schools, universities, or offering private lessons.

Orchestra Section Leader/Principal: Graduates with exceptional skills can aspire to become section leaders or principal players in orchestras or chamber ensembles.

Music Administrator/Manager: Opportunities exist in arts administration, working as orchestra managers, concert organizers, or administrators for music festivals.

Instrumental Coach/Conductor: Graduates can coach young musicians or pursue conducting roles in orchestras, ensembles, or music schools.

Session Musician/Recording Artist: Graduates may work as session musicians or recording artists, contributing to studio recordings, film scores, or other multimedia projects.

Music Arranger/Transcriber: Graduates with composition skills can work as arrangers or transcribers, adapting music pieces for different ensembles or purposes.

Music Entrepreneur: Graduates with entrepreneurial skills can establish their music schools, music camps, or start their ensembles.