MA Music: Performance Practice pathway

The MA Music: Performance Practice Pathway prepares students for careers as performers and scholars. Students combine studies of contemporary performance with those of historical practice. This pathway differs from the Performance Pathway in that it incorporates a more substantial academic component, representing an ideal training model for future performer-scholars.

Full time staff include Director of Performance Ceri Owen, an award-winning collaborative pianist and scholar, and scholar-performer and early music conductor Andrew Kirkman. They join forces with Simon Halsey, renowned chorus master of the CBSO and Berlin Radio Choir, and orchestral conductor Daniele Rosina, plus instrumental and vocal lessons arranged with the faculty of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.

You also receive the opportunity to take advantage of the early performance opportunities afforded by the Centre for Early Music Performance and Research (CEMPR).

Students wishing to study performance practice pre-1800 will benefit from access to these facilities, as well as period-specific resources. Those wishing to study music of the mid- to late-19th century will have access to an 1851 original Erard piano which can be used for performance of relevant repertoire. Those with an interest in 20th and 21st Century music will have the opportunity to work with the Birmingham Contemporary Music Group.

The MA in Music at Birmingham offers first class, internationally-renowned staff who are experts in their fields, meaning students learn from specialists who really are the best at what they do.

Students study within the excellent facilities available with the Elgar Concert Hall, which is one of the most flexible concert halls of its type in any UK university.

Employability

Your degree will provide excellent preparation for your future career, but this can also be enhanced by a range of employability support services offered by the University and the College of Arts and Law.

The University's Careers Network provides expert guidance and activities especially for postgraduates, which will help you achieve your career goals. The College of Arts and Law also has a dedicated careers and employability team who offer tailored advice and a programme of College-specific careers events.

You will be encouraged to make the most of your postgraduate experience and will have the opportunity to:

• Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique, whether you are looking for a career inside or outside of academia
• Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations
• Attend an annual programme of careers fairs, skills workshops and conferences, including bespoke events for postgraduates in the College of Arts and Law
• Take part in a range of activities to demonstrate your knowledge and skills to potential employers and enhance your CV