Music (PhD)

Course overview

Research Areas Music with specialisations in: Musicology Composition Welsh Music Performance Normally the research project will be limited to any one area. Performers, however, will follow, in addition to their practical studies (60%), an agreed programme of original research into historical study, performance practice, editing or analysis, focusing on aspects related or central to repertoire performed (40%). Programme Structure As a research programme, the course does not have a modular outline.

Each student receives close supervision on an individual and original project, which has the potential to make a new and substantial contribution to the field. Each student has a supervisory committee, led by the main supervisor, assisted by two other staff members with relevant expertise. Research students have regular meetings with their supervisor and are entitled to consult other members of their committee as appropriate.

They are also encouraged to present reports on their work in seminars and colloquia during each of their period of study. Final assessment will be through viva voce examination through an appointed panel. The panel consists of one internal examiner from within the University/School (not identical with members of the supervisory committee), one external examiner, who is an expert in the field, and a chair.

Submission Historical Musicology / Editorial Musicology: Thesis of 100,000 words or equivalent Composition: Portfolio of compositions, consisting of around 120 minutes of music (depending on complexity); accompanying essay of 7,000-10,000 words on style, technique and aesthetic which contextualises the submitted portfolio Performance: (i) two full-length public recitals (40-50 mins) and one CD (40-50 mins), featuring different repertoire (60%); (ii) dissertation on a related area (40,000 words) or a composition of comparable length for the instrument in question (40%) Programme Length Registration period (excluding write-up year) - PhD: 3 years full-time, 6 years part-time; MPhil: 2 years full-time; 4 years part-time.

Key highlights

Specialise in musicology, composition, Welsh music or performance
Supervisory committee of a main supervisor and two expert staff
Performers combine practical study (60%) with original research (40%)
Composers submit around 120 minutes of music with contextual essay
Performance route includes two public recitals and a CD
Present work in seminars and colloquia throughout your studies

Entry requirements

Master's degree: Merit — Degree at British Master’s standard: normally merit degree or equivalent.

Scholarships

Deans Scholarship - Postgraduate Research
20% reduction in the published Postgraduate Research tuition fee for each year of study.
Up to 20% of fees
Heads of School Scholarship
10% reduction in the published Postgraduate Research tuition fee for each year of study.
Up to 10% of fees
Inclusive Bangor Scholarships
Payment towards tuition fees for one-year taught or research postgraduate Masters (or for two years if studying part-time). This will be capped at £9,500.
Refugee Scholarship
Vice-Chancellor Postgraduate Research Scholarships
50% discount on the published International Tuition Fee for each year of study.
Up to 50% of fees

Careers this course leads to

University lecturer in music
Musicologist
Composer
Professional performer
Music editor
Music researcher

Cost of study

UK/Home: £5,182 per year | International: £19,500 per year

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to Bangor University, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

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