Composition and Sonic Art

Entry requirements

• A first degree at 2.ii standard or higher (or equivalent) is required.
• Candidates with a 2.ii degree must however achieve a 2.i in a substantial project in their chosen area of study (e.g. a portfolio of compositions).
• Applicants may be asked to submit 2-3 representative samples of their creative work (these can be notated scores, or audio recordings, or both, and can be uploaded as documents or weblinks such as to Dropbox, YouTube or similar).

Months of entry

September

Course content

The MMus in Composition and Sonic Art allows you to develop your skills and understanding of contemporary practices in music composition and sonic art. The programme will equip you with the knowledge required to compose in a range of styles and genres, while enabling you to develop high-level skills in a compositional field of your choice. You will learn more about the concepts of research-led practice, and will hone high-level transferable skills in critical thinking, conceptual thinking, problem solving, analysis, communication, self-direction, creativity and originality.

Specialism is offered in a range of styles and genres, including writing for instruments and/or voices, acousmatic composition, composition for live musicians with electronics, popular song composition, and composing for film, television and other media.

You will work closely with professional composers and established researchers, most of whom have international profiles. The School enjoys close links with industrial and third-sector partners such as Music Theatre Wales, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Blipfonica, and it is often possible for students to undertake a work placement during the course of the programme.

Information for international students

English proficiency (for non-native English or Welsh speakers): IELTS English test with a score of 6.0 (no element below 5.5).

For information and further detailed guidance on entry requirements for International Students, including the minimum English Language entry requirement, please visit the Entry Requirements by Country pages on the International Education Centre section of our website.

Fees and funding

Arts & Humanities Research Board; some University and school bursaries available. Please see our Fees & Finances pages for more information.