Music

Highlights

Do you have your heart set on a career in music? This specialist BMus supports and nurtures your creative potential, deepening your understanding and appreciation of music in wider culture and society. Staff are world-leading experts in early, contemporary, classical, popular and Welsh music, critical editing of music, composition (acoustic and acousmatic), sonic arts, contemporary and interactive performance.

Friendly music-making community includes the University Symphony Orchestra, University Chorus and Chamber Choir, String Orchestra, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Music Society and musical theatre society. You will perform in and attend events at public venues, including: Pontio, the University’s Arts and Innovation Centre; our magnificent Prichard Jones Hall, and superb chamber music venue, Powis Hall. Our music facilities include practice facilities, studios, and incredible spaces to participate and attend music and performances.

Course overview

At Bangor, making music and understanding music go hand in hand. Studying our BMus (Hons) Music degree you will be taught by world-renowned composers, performers and musicologists, who will encourage you to explore the connections between all three fundamental aspects of musical study. You can explore the history and development of your favourite genres, discover new styles and repertoires, and learn more about the art and craft of music.

Taking part in regular workshops, guest talks, performances and concerts will improve your skills as a musician, performer, composer or musicologist. Take advantage of our close links with leading organisations such as the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Music Theatre Wales, Venue Cymru and Ensemble Cymru. In addition to the University’s Symphony Chorus, Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Choir, String Orchestra, Concert Band, and Jazz Band, we run a range of specialist ensembles.

We also offer an excellent range of instruments and equipment, including a full-size organ, chamber organ, several harpsichords, harps, and Steinway grand pianos. Our extensive music facilities on campus include two professional standard concert halls, rehearsal spaces, practice rooms, and four electroacoustic composition and recording studios. You will also have access to dedicated performance and rehearsal spaces in the Pontio Arts and Innovation Centre.

What is the difference between the BA and BMus? Here at Bangor University, the BA (Hons) Music and BMus (Hons) degrees are both specialist degrees in Music. The essential difference between them is that students taking the BMus (Hons) do 100% of their modules in Music, with a large choice of specialist options in Years 2 and 3.

Students following the BA (Hons) Music can either do all of their modules in Music or may elect each year to do up to one third of their modules in other subjects. Read more Course options

Placement year

What is the Placement Year? This exciting opportunity allows you to spend a year working with a self-sourced, professional organisation relevant to your studies. You'll typically start between June and September of your second year and finish by the following June or September.

Placements can be UK-based or even overseas. Why choose a Placement Year? Gain practical experience that complements your academic learning Make valuable industry contacts that could open doors for future careers Strengthen your employability by gaining real-world experience.

How does the Placement Year work? With dedicated support from your Academic School and our Careers and Employability Services, you will be fully equipped to find the perfect placement to complement your degree. We will guide you through the process of securing and finalising your placement arrangements.

Is the Placement Year for you? There is no need to decide now. You will have the chance to explore the Placement Year option after starting your course at Bangor University.

We'll provide all the information you need to make an…