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Music Performance Practice PhD (On Campus or by Distance Learning)

University of Birmingham

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Course options

  • Qualification

    PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

  • Location

    University of Birmingham

  • Study mode

    Full time

  • Start date

    SEP-24, JAN-25

  • Duration

    3 years

Course summary

Our postgraduate research programmes in Performance Practice are a unique opportunity for performers of proven ability to develop their work on historically-informed performances of western art music.

You will be assessed by performance supported by written work, which demonstrates a high level of ability in presenting, and reasoning from, historical evidence relating to performance practice.

The Department of Music offers two options for postgraduate research, whether you are looking to complete your academic studies with a PhD or to pursue Masters-level research following an undergraduate degree a related field.

The PhD in Performance Practice is examined in two stages. At the end of Year 2, you will give a live ‘Minor Performance’ of 30 minutes, together with a written programme note for, and critical commentary on, the performance. This performance is examined by two internal examiners and is followed immediately by a short viva focusing on issues of performance. You may be advised by the examiners not to proceed to the PhD in Performance Practice, but rather to transfer to a Musicology PhD.

At the end of Year 3, you will be examined by:

  • A thesis of c.60,000 words
  • A ‘Major’ performance of one hour’s actual performance time (40-50 minutes for wind and brass players)
  • A written programme note for, and detailed critical commentary on, the performance

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

Tuition fees

Students living in United States
(International fees)

£ 21,840per year

Tuition fees shown are for indicative purposes and may vary. Please check with the institution for most up to date details.

University information

University of Birmingham

University of Birmingham

  • University League Table

    14th

  • Campus address

    University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, England

The University of Birmingham is a founding member of the elite Russell Group of UK universities.
Based in the second largest city in the UK, Birmingham offers an outstanding international student experience.
The university has a vibrant international student community and is home to over 10,000 international students from approximately 150 countries.

Subject rankings

  • Subject ranking

    12th out of 98 8

    11th out of 83

  • Entry standards

    / Max 187
    157 79%

    12th

  • Graduate prospects

    / Max 100
    69.0 69%

    10th

    73
  • Student satisfaction

    / Max 5
    3.85 77%

    60th

    26
  • Entry standards

    / Max 217
    170 80%

    13th

  • Graduate prospects

    / Max 100
    82.0 82%

    7th

    1
  • Student satisfaction

    / Max 5
    3.89 78%

    52nd

    24

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