This module fosters deep intellectual engagement with critical ideas that characterise current thinking in the field of music. The starting point for this engagement is listening. Listening most obviously relates to music’s fundamental status as sound, but it also provides a lens through which you will interrogate ideas about what music is, how it functions, why it is important and how we can understand it from critical, conceptual, and philosophical perspectives. You will be guided through ideas that will help you situate your own work as a researcher and/or practitioner. You will also receive training in some essential skills that will underpin your studies.

This module provides you with the opportunity to embark on a project relating to your chosen area of specialisation. For practitioners, such projects may include performance (e.g., classical, jazz, pop, choral practices, live electronics), composition (e.g., instrumental/vocal, electronic, acousmatic, songwriting, film music), or production (e.g., recording practices, mixing/mastering, spatial/immersive work). For researchers, projects may relate to musicology, music psychology, music education, or music analysis. You will be taught through a series of workshops and tutorials.

Concepts in Music 2 further deepens your understanding of key ideas and thinking in the field of music by exploring concepts of process. Examining music through the lens of process offers a way to understand long-term historical trajectories, patterns of influence, stylistic development, and the socio-political and cultural contexts that contributed to and emerged from such shifts in music. Understanding process also provides insights into music’s meaning and significance for individuals, groups, and communities at local and global scales. Processes in music can also be explored through acts of resistance, disruption, and critique.

Embark on an advanced project or placement relating to your chosen area of specialisation. This original work is supported by the development of advanced practical skills structured through a series of specific tasks and challenges designed to deepen your skills and experience of applied work alongside workshops and tutorials. You will be encouraged to engage in collaborative work where possible as you build your skills and professionalism in an applied and sustainable way.

Major Project in Music is the culmination of your developmental trajectory throughout the MMus programme. This module gives you the opportunity to embark on your most substantial and ambitious project to date, which will be a springboard into the next stage of your career. Your project will be an authentic reflection of your area of specialisation and you will be able to take full advantage of being part of the wider School of the Arts. You may even opt to spend some time on a placement in industry or modelling a freelance career as part of this module.