English Literature And Music

Highlights

Our staff have world-leading expertise in performance, composition and musicology, as well as Arthurian Literature, early modern literature, the history of the book, and Welsh writing. Join a dynamic creative community with choirs and orchestras, bands, student ensembles, Bangor University Music Society, Bangor English Drama Society, the Writers’ Guild and Society Of Dramatic Arts. Bangor’s vibrant local arts and culture scene includes local theatres, cinemas, and poetry groups.

Discover drama, dance, films, music and more at Pontio, our Arts and Innovation Centre. Benefit from our music facilities that feature dedicated practice rooms, state-of-the-art studios, and inspiring spaces for both performing and experiencing live music. Visiting guest writers help inspire creativity which in the past have included hosts readings and discussion from award-winning novelists and poets.

Catrin Kean, poet Bhanu Kapil, and short fiction author Wendy Erskine are just some of the writers to pay us a visit at Bangor University.

Course overview

This BA (Hons) English Literature and Music allows you to pursue your passion for music and literature. Connected not just by their creativity and contribution to culture, composition and writing work in similar ways to inspire, tell stories, and give meaning to our world. One of the oldest English Literature departments in the UK, Bangor’s specialisms range from the literatures of the Middle Ages and Renaissance period, through to Victorian and Modernist forms.

In music, key strengths lie in early music, 20th and 21st century music, editing, Welsh music, sonic art, composition, contemporary and interactive performance. We enjoy close links with leading organisations such as the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Ensemble Cymru. On this English Literature and Music degree, you will spend a similar amount of time on each subject.

The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing you to choose modules that match your interests or career aspirations. Potential content spans a broad range of periods, cultures and themes, analysing works from contemporary and historical perspectives. In Literature, our goal is to introduce you to new writers as well as known texts.

In Music, you will develop your skills as a musician, music researcher, composer and critic. In both disciplines, you’ll be encouraged to question what you see, read and hear: to think differently, develop fresh perspectives, and find innovative ways to interpret and find meaning. You’ll join a welcoming, supportive community, which makes your learning experience more personal.

As well as unrivalled performance opportunities, we offer an excellent range of instruments and equipment, including four Steinway grand pianos. 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 informed decision. Ready to find out more? Discover the exciting work experience…