MA in Music (by research): Improvised Music and Jazz

University of York

The MA by Research in Improvised Music and Jazz welcomes applicants who wish to pursue a programme of research focussing on the application, or study, of musical processes that prioritise improvisation. As this is a research degree applicants should be able to demonstrate a secure understanding of an improvised practice that is relevant to their chosen area of interest. This understanding can be theoretical or practical and it is important to note that both are equally valued. Interdisciplinary research proposals are also encouraged (whether they be cross art form - e.g., dance and music - or seek to connect distinct musical practices in interesting ways).

The University of York archives hold a range of material directly relevant to research in jazz and improvised music, including the J. R.T. Davies collection of pre-1950s jazz (mainly on 78rpm disk) and the ECMRecords collection. The programme is also directly supported by individual coaching and workshops from members of the Julian Argüelles Octet and other visiting musicians. The University Jazz Orchestra is a key resource for practical work (performance and composition), as well as the recording and rehearsal facilities of the mrc.

The MA in Music by Research offers postgraduate opportunities to individuals who prefer to study independently rather than through classroom teaching, working under the close supervision of an expert in their field. This is a research degree, not a taught course programme, and applicants will need to have a clearly focussed research proposal in their given area to be considered for admission to the research MA. Supervision and tutorial meetings are held on either a weekly or fortnightly basis throughout the academic year and by arrangement over the summer vacation. There is also an opportunity for all MA by Research students to interact with one another: the MA Research Forum. Meeting on Wednesday mornings, this is a discussion group that engages with common themes, such as issues of writing about music, while offering the opportunity for individual students to present aspects of their research topics to the larger group. Students are also encouraged to attend the weekly Research Seminar series (on Wednesday afternoons) where invited speakers, staff members and PhD students give presentations about their latest work, and there are opportunities to meet other postgraduate researchers.