Study and Research in the Composition and Recording Studios

Creative activity based in the Studios is a central strand of Composition in the Department of Music, and is available at all levels.

Undergraduate

All Single Honours music students take a semester of Studio Composition in their first-year, during which they complete three real compositions and discover the core concepts, technical skills, and aesthetic challenges and possibilities of the medium. An intensive second-year study (optional) expands on this, introducing also the basics of recording engineering, interactivity and live electronics, and this leads on to flexible options in the third-year. These units are available also for Joint Honours students (Music and a Modern Language). For more details, see the Information for Prospective Undergraduates and also the Information for current students.

Taught Postgraduate

There are two courses available at Masters level. The electroacoustic route through the MA in Composition is particularly suited to 'concert' composers who wish develop their skills and understanding in the use of recorded and/or live electronics in conjunction with acoustic instruments and voice. The MA in Composition for Film and Television offers a rigorous training for professional work in music for moving image.

Research

We welcome proposals for compositional research across a broad range of disciplines. These might include, but are certainly not limited to: acousmatic composition; mixed acoustic and electroacoustic composition; interactivity and creation of new performance interfaces; sound installation; music for experimental film and other hybrid arts. Current postgraduate researchers come from a spread of international backgrounds.

Research students work under the umbrella of the MMus / PhD in Composition. A one-year Masters by research is also available, leading to the degree of MPhil.

We welcome enquiries for postdoctoral research, exchanges, and institutional collaboration. Please contact Dr Neal Farwell.