Program Overview
The PhD in Music at the University of Aberdeen offers research opportunities in composition, performance, ethnomusicology, musicology, music, place and politics, and sound studies. Led by renowned faculty, the program fosters interdisciplinary research and engages in public outreach. Applicants may pursue studies remotely, subject to supervisor approval.
Program Outline
Teaching:
Staff:
- Professor Paul Mealor
- Professor Edward Campbell
- Professor Chris Collins
- Professor Suk-Jun Kim
- Dr Phillip Cooke
- Dr John De Simone
- Dr Jonathan Hicks
- Dr Frances Wilkins
- Dr Matthew Machin-Autenrieth
- Dr Thomas A. McKean
Research Groups and Interdisciplinary:
- Sound Emporium Research Group (SERG)
- Elphinstone Institute
- Past and Present Musical Encounters across the Strait of Gibraltar (MESG)
Other:
Research Interests:
- Composition and Performance: Composition and performance as research (choral, electroacoustic, contemporary ensemble music, traditional music).
- Ethnomusicology: Study of music and culture (specialisms in Spain, North Africa and Europe).
- Musicology: Specialisms in medieval, Renaissance and Baroque periods, as well as the 19th to 21st centuries.
- Music, Place and Politics: Specialisms include mobility and migration, postcolonial studies, urban history, gender, nationalism and heritage across a range of genres and time periods.
- Sound Studies and Sound Art: Research and creative specialisms in human and non-human sounds and soundscapes.
- Applicants who wish to undertake their studies as Distance Learners will be considered, subject to discussion with an appropriate supervisor.
- The department produces internationally recognised academic and creative outputs with a strong interdisciplinary approach, as well as engaging in public facing activities and impact projects.
- Research at the department is strengthened by a diverse group of PhD students.
- The department also maintains close links with the Elphinstone Institute, especially in the areas of ethnomusicology and traditional music.
- Staff at Aberdeen are internationally renowned in their chosen fields and have books, editions, and articles published in many major journals and publishing houses and are regular contributors to international conferences.
- Their compositions are performed throughout the world and are recorded and broadcast on many radio and TV stations and they have received commissions from groups such as the BBC and Carnegie Hall, New York City.
University of Aberdeen
Overview:
The University of Aberdeen is a renowned institution of higher learning located in Aberdeen, Scotland. It boasts a rich history, having been established in 1495, making it one of the oldest universities in the UK. The university is known for its commitment to research and teaching, offering a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.
Services Offered:
The university provides a comprehensive range of services to support students in their academic journey. These include:
Academic Support:
Access to libraries, study resources, and academic advisors.Student Life:
Opportunities for extracurricular activities, clubs, societies, and sports.Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.Career Services:
Guidance and support for career planning and job hunting.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, bursaries, and other financial assistance programs.International Student Support:
Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of Aberdeen can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university offers a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, including:
Sports:
Participation in various sports teams and leagues.Societies and Clubs:
Joining student-led clubs and societies based on interests.Events and Activities:
Attending social events, concerts, and cultural performances.Student Union:
Engaging with the student union for representation and advocacy.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
The university is recognized for its high-quality teaching and research.Global Reputation:
It holds a strong international reputation, attracting students from around the world.Beautiful Campus:
The university is situated on a picturesque campus with historic buildings and modern facilities.Vibrant City:
Aberdeen offers a lively city environment with a rich cultural scene.Strong Research Focus:
The university is a leading research institution, with a focus on innovation and impact.Academic Programs:
The University of Aberdeen offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Degrees:
Bachelor's degrees in various disciplines, including Arts, Science, Engineering, Medicine, and Law.Postgraduate Taught Degrees:
Master's degrees and postgraduate diplomas in specialized fields.Postgraduate Research Degrees:
PhD programs and research opportunities in various research areas.Online Learning:
Flexible online programs for students who prefer distance learning.Other:
The university is committed to sustainability and has been recognized for its efforts in this area. It is also a member of the Russell Group, a group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK.