MA Music: portfolio requirements
Please read the portfolio requirements that correspond to your chosen pathway.
MA in Music
The following pathways require you to submit a portfolio along with your application:
Performance pathway
Please provide online video performances of two or more contrasting pieces, totalling no more than 15 minutes.
Videos should be uploaded and made accessible to the reviewers online on either of the following standard formats:
- YouTube
- Dropbox
Links for these should be included in the application; please upload the links in an additional document.
Please note that we will not be able to review your application until we receive links to your online video performances.
Please also note that we do not accept physical copies of documents sent via the post.
Composition pathway
What to include in your portfolio
We are open to variations of individual circumstances, but as a guide:
Instrumental / vocal work
- Two or three recent written scores for contrasting mediums.
- Live workshop or concert recordings of the above where available. (Synthesised demos are not encouraged, but may be substituted if a live recording is not available.)
Electronic and mixed media work if applicable
- Electroacoustic composition, for example acousmatic music, presented as a recording.
- Mixed-media concert works, such as for instrument/voice and tape or live electronics. Include the written score and a performance recording, as above.
- Film track or music-theatre work. Include the written score (if applicable), a video recording, and a statement indicating what component of the creative work is your own.
Send your best work: quality, not quantity. As a rough guide, we suggest no more than 3 pieces and a total playing time of 15 minutes.
How to present your scores and media
Scores should be typeset or in fair-copy manuscript (i.e. suitable for presentation to a performer). Large-format scores may be included if this is how the music was created.
Scores should be attached to the application or shared via Dropbox. Audio and/or video examples should be uploaded and made accessible to the reviewers online on either of the following standard formats:
- YouTube
- Soundcloud
- Dropbox
Links for these should be included in the application: please upload the links in an additional document.
Please note that we do not accept physical copies of documents sent via the post
Further questions
If you have any further questions about the portfolio of work required please contact the Composition Pathway Tutor, Michael Ellison.
When to apply
Applications for the taught programmes are accepted on a rolling basis until the programmes are full.
Please note that we cannot review your application until you have provided all the required documents to complete your portfolio.