PhD Music Performance Practice

Program Overview

This postgraduate research program in Performance Practice offers musicians the opportunity to delve into historically-informed performances through a combination of performance and written work. Assessed through a thesis, performance, and commentary, the MA program emphasizes evidence-based reasoning and presentation skills. The PhD program, spanning two years, includes a Minor Performance in Year 2 and a Major Performance in Year 3, accompanied by a thesis and critical commentary.

Program Outline

You will be assessed by performance supported by written work, which demonstrates a high level of ability in presenting, and reasoning from, historical evidence relating to performance practice.

Assessment:

The MA by Research in Performance Practice is examined by:

• A thesis of c.20,000 words
• A performance not exceeding 45 minutes actual performance time (30-35 minutes for wind and brass players) which illustrates, at least in part, ideas raised in the thesis
The PhD in Performance Practice is examined in two stages. At the end of Year 2, you will give a live ‘Minor Performance’ of 30 minutes, together with a written programme note for, and critical commentary on, the performance. This performance is examined by two internal examiners and is followed immediately by a short viva focusing on issues of performance. You may be advised by the examiners not to proceed to the PhD in Performance Practice, but rather to transfer to a Musicology PhD. At the end of Year 3, you will be examined by:
• A thesis of c.60,000 words
• A ‘Major’ performance of one hour’s actual performance time (40-50 minutes for wind and brass players)
The performance will be given as a standard live recital, of which a recording will be made and a copy on CD submitted with the library copy of the thesis. The recital element will be examined by three examiners (one external and two internal).

Careers:

Birmingham's Music postgraduates work in a wide range of careers within and beyond the music world. A postgraduate degree in Music develops a broad base of skills including general skills such as communication, problem solving and research, and also specific skills developed by practice and performance such as self-management, team work and presentation.

Other:

You can study full-time or part-time, on campus or by distance learning. The College of Arts and Law is experienced in delivering high quality distance learning to students all over the world. The facilities at the Birmingham ElectroAcoustic Sound Theatre (BEAST) are some of the best in the UK. My supervisors give me the freedom to have fun with my research portfolio and there are regular opportunities to get more involved with department events and teaching.

• UK:
£4,786 full-time; £2,393 part-time
• International:
£21,840 full-time; £10,920 part-time (distance learning only) Payment options: can either be paid in full or by instalments.