MSc Accounting
The MSc Accounting at the University of Manchester, United Kingdom, is a specialized po...
MusM Composition (Instrumental and Vocal music)
Manchester, England
INTAKE: Jan & Sept
Program Overview
The MusM Composition (Instrumental and Vocal Music) program at the University of Manchester is designed for students with a strong passion for classical music composition, particularly in instrumental and vocal settings. The program offers an opportunity to explore the creation of music for a wide range of ensembles, from orchestral works to vocal compositions, while also gaining a deep understanding of contemporary compositional techniques. The curriculum balances creative composition with technical training, providing students with the skills to develop their own unique musical voice while engaging with the traditions of Western classical music.
Curriculum: The MusM Composition (Instrumental and Vocal Music) program provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers both practical and theoretical aspects of music composition. Core modules typically include Composition Techniques, Orchestration, Vocal and Choral Music Composition, and Music Analysis. The program places significant emphasis on the creation of original compositions, with students working on both individual projects and collaborative compositions. Practical modules also provide hands-on experience with various ensembles, allowing students to develop their skills in writing for different instruments and voices. Elective modules provide opportunities to specialize in areas such as opera, chamber music, and film scoring. Students also receive training in music technology to facilitate the production and recording of their compositions.
Research Focus: The research focus of the MusM Composition (Instrumental and Vocal Music) program emphasizes the exploration of new and innovative compositional methods, alongside a respect for classical traditions. Students engage with contemporary trends in composition, experimenting with diverse techniques and genres, while also analyzing historical works to understand compositional techniques that have shaped music through the centuries. Research themes may include the intersection of traditional and modern orchestration, vocal techniques, and the role of music in society. Students are encouraged to explore areas such as music for large ensembles, vocal arrangements, and the development of new musical languages that resonate with current artistic movements.
Industry Engagement: The University of Manchester’s MusM Composition (Instrumental and Vocal Music) program is deeply connected with the professional music industry, offering students opportunities to engage with the world of classical music composition through various collaborations. Students are given access to performance opportunities with professional musicians, orchestras, and choirs, which allows them to hear their works come to life in a public setting. Additionally, the university has partnerships with a variety of music organizations, ensuring that students can connect with industry professionals for mentorship, workshops, and internships. The program also provides opportunities for students to collaborate on commissioned works and participate in competitions, enhancing their visibility in the professional music community.
Global Perspective: The MusM Composition (Instrumental and Vocal Music) program at the University of Manchester offers students a global perspective by encouraging the exploration of international music traditions and compositional techniques. The university hosts guest lecturers and composers from around the world, offering students exposure to diverse musical practices. International study opportunities, such as exchanges with other leading music institutions, allow students to broaden their understanding of global trends in music composition. This global outlook is designed to ensure that students are equipped to work in diverse cultural contexts and collaborate with musicians and composers worldwide.
Location
Manchester, England
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 27000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application fee: £60
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 with no individual component below 6.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Manchester offers a range of scholarships to support international students in funding their education and making their academic journey more accessible. These scholarships are designed to reward academic excellence, support students from diverse backgrounds, and help ease the financial challenges of studying abroad.
Global Futures Scholarship: The Global Futures Scholarship is a prestigious award for international students who demonstrate academic excellence and potential. This scholarship offers a £5,000 contribution towards tuition fees, providing financial assistance for undergraduate and postgraduate students. This scholarship is open to students from specific countries and disciplines, so it is essential to check eligibility criteria and deadlines.
Manchester Master’s Bursary: The Manchester Master’s Bursary is a financial aid program aimed at helping postgraduate students who come from lower-income backgrounds. This bursary offers support for UK, EU, and international students who wish to pursue a master’s degree at the university. The bursary can cover a significant portion of tuition fees and is awarded based on financial need.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Many departments at the University of Manchester offer subject-specific scholarships for students enrolling in their programs. For example, students applying for programs in engineering, business, life sciences, and the arts may be eligible for additional funding based on academic performance and their future potential. These scholarships are often offered to high-achieving students who demonstrate exceptional skills and dedication to their field of study.
Chevening Scholarships: The Chevening Scholarship is a fully-funded award provided by the UK government, open to outstanding international students from over 160 countries. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, and other related costs. The University of Manchester is a proud participant in this global program and welcomes applications from students wishing to pursue a master's degree in a variety of disciplines.
Commonwealth Scholarships: The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission offers fully funded scholarships for international students from Commonwealth countries. These scholarships support students pursuing postgraduate studies in fields such as engineering, health sciences, and education. They cover the full cost of tuition fees, travel, and living expenses during the duration of the program.
Regional Scholarships: The university also offers regional scholarships for students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. These scholarships are designed to make studying at the University of Manchester more accessible to students from these regions and offer both partial and full financial support depending on the scholarship type.
Graduates of the MusM Composition (Instrumental and Vocal Music) program from the University of Manchester have access to a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in the classical music and broader creative industries. This program equips students with the skills needed to thrive in various roles in music composition, performance, and education.
Orchestral Composer: Graduates may pursue careers composing original works for orchestras, symphonies, or other large instrumental ensembles. They can work on commissions or compose for their own projects, contributing to the classical music repertoire.
Choral and Vocal Composer: Specializing in vocal and choral composition, graduates can write for choirs, solo singers, and vocal ensembles. This may include creating new works for prestigious choral institutions or composing for operas and other vocal performances.
Film and TV Composer: With their background in instrumental and vocal composition, graduates can explore opportunities in composing for film, television, and other multimedia projects. This field allows composers to create music that supports visual storytelling.
Music Arranger and Orchestrator: Graduates can work as arrangers or orchestrators, adapting compositions for different ensembles or transforming existing music for new instrumentation. This career involves close collaboration with conductors, performers, and other musicians.
Music Educator or Lecturer: Those with a passion for teaching may become music educators in schools, universities, or private institutions. Some graduates choose to teach music composition, music theory, or performance at various educational levels.
Composer-in-Residence or Artist-in-Residence: Many prestigious institutions and festivals offer residency programs where composers can live and work in a community, creating new works and collaborating with other artists. These opportunities provide both creative freedom and financial support.
Freelance Composer or Musician: Many graduates choose to work as freelance composers, collaborating on a range of projects, from chamber music commissions to orchestral compositions. Freelancers often collaborate with musicians, music producers, and performance groups.
Music Producer or Director: Graduates with an interest in the technical side of music may pursue careers as music producers or directors, overseeing the production and recording of instrumental and vocal music. They work with artists to refine and produce their compositions.
Music Consultant for Film, TV, and Theatre: Music consultants help ensure that the score for a film, TV series, or stage production aligns with the creative vision. They may also assist in selecting composers or orchestrators and ensure that music is integrated effectively.
Arts Administrator: Graduates may also pursue careers in arts administration, helping to manage music festivals, orchestras, and performance venues. This role involves overseeing the business side of the arts, including budgeting, marketing, and programming.
