Performance Studies (MA)

Institution Cardiff University
Method At the institution
Location Cardiff - Cardiff
Type Masters

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Performance Studies (MA)

Objectives To offer knowledge and expertise for a career in university research (PhD), teaching, professional performance and other avenues.
Entry requirements Entry Requirements:

A first or upper second class Honours degree, or equivalent is usually required. Suitable for graduates in Music, who are specialist performers.

In addition, applicants should supply evidence of appropriate skills in written and spoken English (usually via a score of 570 on TOEFL (230 on computer based marking) or band 6.5 on IELTS) and, if relevant, foreign language skills.
Academic title Performance Studies (MA)
Course description Course Description:

This programme provides a coherent programme of musicological and practical study as well as a solid basis in musicological techniques and methods. It entails a detailed study of the history, repertory, performing techniques and teaching principles of the instrument or voice chosen for the concluding recital component.

Stage 1

    * MA Research Skills (see MA in Musicology)
    * Organology and Technique (two 1500-word assignments, Autumn, 20 credits) involving detailed study of the relevant instrument (or voice) and investigation into the development of its performance techniques and teaching principles.
    * Repertory (one 3000-word assignment (50%); one 3-hour examination (50%), Autumn and Spring, 30 credits)a broad survey of the repertory of the relevant instrument or voice chosen for the recital component and a detailed examination of four specific areas of that repertory (normally embracing different genres and/or historical periods), chosen in consultation.
    * Performance Practice (two 3000-word assignments, Spring, 30 credits) includes study of: primary source materials (theoretical treatises, iconography, etc.), and relevant aspects of the ways in which music is and has been performed
    * Performance 1 'Closed' Recital (autumn [normally presented in late January], 30 credits) involves the presentation of a 'closed' recital of approximately 30 minutes' duration.

Stage 2

    * Performance 2 Public Recital (normally presented in mid-September [tuition between October and September], 60 credits) involves the presentation of a public recital of approximately one hour's duration (including a set-piece), a performance portfolio (including programme notes and a diary of participation in the School's concerts) and a via-voce examination.

Semester 1

    * MA Research Skills
    * Organology and Technique
    * Repertory
    * Performance 1

Semester 2

    * Performance Practice
    * Repertory (cont.)
    * Recital (presentation in mid-September)

Special Features:

    * Teaching is by tutorials, seminars and instrumental/vocal lessons.
    * 40 hours of vocal/instrumental tuition per student.
    * Opportunities for performance in a variety of ensembles, instrumental/vocal workshops and master-classes.