MA Performance (Music)

Newton Park

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The MA Performance (Music) program at Bath Spa University is typically a one-year full-time or two-year part-time course, catering to instrumentalists, vocalists, and composers with a strong performance focus. It is structured to allow students to deepen their performance expertise through individual practice, masterclasses, ensemble work, and public performances. The program encourages students to explore their specific musical interests and develop a personalized pathway of study. A key element involves regular performance opportunities, both solo and collaborative, providing valuable experience and building a professional portfolio. The program culminates in a significant final performance or recital that showcases the student's artistic development and technical mastery.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA Performance (Music) program is highly individualized, focusing on the student's chosen instrument or voice. Core elements typically include advanced instrumental/vocal technique, performance practice and interpretation, stylistic studies across various genres, and ensemble performance. Students benefit from one-on-one tuition with experienced performers and educators, receiving personalized guidance to enhance their technical proficiency and artistic expression. The program often incorporates masterclasses and workshops led by visiting professional musicians. Students are encouraged to engage in collaborative projects, exploring chamber music, orchestral repertoire, or other ensemble settings relevant to their interests. The curriculum may also include modules on performance psychology, career development for musicians, and the use of technology in performance. Students have opportunities to explore historical performance practices or contemporary music, depending on their specialization.

Research Focus: While the MA Performance (Music) program is primarily practice-based, it operates within the research-informed environment of Bath Spa University's School of Music and Performing Arts. The faculty often comprises active performers and scholars who bring their professional expertise and research interests into their teaching. The program encourages students to engage in critical reflection on their own performance practice and explore relevant musicological or performance studies research. Students may undertake research-based projects related to performance interpretation, historical context, or stylistic analysis. The university's broader research strengths in musicology, composition, and music technology provide a stimulating intellectual context for the program, encouraging a scholarly approach to musical performance.

Industry Engagement: The MA Performance (Music) program at Bath Spa University actively fosters connections with the professional music industry. Students benefit from opportunities to perform in public concerts and recitals, often in collaboration with local music organizations or venues. The program may facilitate workshops and masterclasses with visiting professional musicians, providing valuable insights into career pathways and performance expectations. Students are encouraged to network with fellow musicians and industry professionals. The curriculum often includes elements of career development, such as audition preparation, self-promotion, and understanding the business aspects of a musical career. The program's location within a vibrant cultural region can also provide opportunities for engagement with the local music scene.

Global Perspective: The MA Performance (Music) program at Bath Spa University embraces a global perspective by encouraging the study and performance of music from diverse cultural traditions and historical periods. Students may have opportunities to explore non-Western musical forms or engage with international repertoire. The university's diverse international student body contributes to a rich and intercultural learning environment, fostering collaboration and exchange across different musical backgrounds. The program may also feature guest artists from around the world or opportunities to participate in international music festivals or workshops. This global outlook prepares graduates to be versatile and culturally aware musicians in an increasingly interconnected world.

Pollster Education

Location

Newton Park

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 17835

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent.

English language proficiency:

  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 75.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
  • DET: A minimum overall score of 120.
  • Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Bath Spa University understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for international students, and to make studying in the UK more accessible, the university offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students and recognize their academic achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses. 

International Scholarships: Bath Spa University offers a variety of international scholarships to help non-UK students cover part of their tuition fees. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential to contribute to the university community.

Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students are also eligible for a range of scholarships, which may vary based on the course of study. These scholarships help to support students at the beginning of their master’s degree programs and can be highly competitive. Scholarships are awarded based on previous academic achievements, research proposals, and the applicant's personal statement.

Alumni Scholarships: Bath Spa University values its alumni community, and in recognition of this, it offers scholarships for international students who are former students of the university or have attended a Bath Spa University partner institution. The Alumni Scholarship is designed to reward those who have previously been part of the university and are returning to continue their studies.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Bath Spa University also provides country-specific scholarships for international students from particular regions. These scholarships are designed to encourage students from specific countries to study at Bath Spa University and contribute to the diverse international student community. Students from certain countries may be eligible for specific funding opportunities based on their nationality. The university’s website provides up-to-date information on country-specific scholarship availability.

Merit-Based Scholarships: Many of Bath Spa University's scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or outstanding potential in their chosen field of study. Merit scholarships are typically awarded during the application process, and students do not need to apply separately for these awards.

External Scholarship Opportunities: In addition to the university’s internal scholarships, international students at Bath Spa University can also apply for external scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, or charitable foundations. Bath Spa University regularly updates a list of external scholarship opportunities that are available to international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.

Graduates from the MA Performance (Music) program at Bath Spa University develop highly refined musical skills, artistic maturity, and professional awareness, positioning them for a diverse range of rewarding careers within the multifaceted music industry. The program's individualized approach and emphasis on both solo and collaborative performance equip graduates for a variety of roles. 

Professional Solo Performer: Pursuing a career as a soloist on their chosen instrument or voice, performing in recitals, concerts, and potentially opera or other staged productions.

Orchestral/Ensemble Musician: Auditioning for and performing with professional orchestras, chamber ensembles, and other instrumental or vocal groups.

Session Musician: Working as a freelance instrumentalist or vocalist in recording studios for various projects, including albums, film scores, and commercials.

Music Teacher/Lecturer: Instructing instrumental or vocal performance at schools, universities, conservatories, or in private practice, mentoring aspiring musicians.

Chamber Musician: Forming or joining chamber music ensembles to perform and tour a diverse repertoire.

Conductor: Developing the skills to lead orchestras, choirs, or other musical ensembles (often requiring further study or experience).

Church Musician/Organist/Choir Director: Providing musical leadership for religious services and directing church choirs.

Community Musician/Workshop Leader: Engaging diverse communities through music workshops, outreach programs, and collaborative musical projects.

Arts Administrator (Music Focus): Working in arts organizations, orchestras, or music venues in administrative roles such as programming, marketing, or artist liaison.

Freelance Performer and Educator: Combining performing engagements with teaching and other music-related activities to build a sustainable career.


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