Music (Performance) MusM

Year of entry: 2025

Course length: 12 Months Full-Time | 24 Months Part-Time

About the course

MusM (Performance Studies) will prepare you for a portfolio career in music performance in the rapidly diversifying post-pandemic music making scene. You will develop an advanced understanding of the interpretation of music and technical expertise, whether through analysis, historical research, cultural critique, artistic research or performance.

You will develop as multifaceted musicians with pedagogical and professional skills, and have the opportunity to engage in community music performance practices as socially conscious artists.

You will be able to choose units that best match your special interests and aspirations. Taught units cover topics including:

Advanced Music Studies: Research Skills in the Digital Age
Performance Portfolio
Contemporary Music Studies
Advanced Orchestration
Business Strategies for the Arts
Popular Music and Identity

These are example course units based on 2024/25 options and are subject to change each year.

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Where will the degree take you?

Our graduates have pursued successful careers in musical and non-musical fields. Some continue to further study via PhD before securing an academic position. Some go on to teach in schools or further education, both in the UK and overseas.

Other areas of work for which advanced musical training has been directly relevant include arts management and the culture industries, producing, music publishing, music, journalism, librarianship, music therapy and performance. Careers outside of music have included accountancy, law, social work and human resources.

Some graduates have gone on to work for companies that include The Old Vic, NHS, Orchestras Live, and the BBC.

The University has its own dedicated Careers Service that you would have full access to as a student and for two years after you graduate.

Music in Manchester

Manchester is home to the world-famous Hallé and BBC Philharmonic orchestras, which both perform at the purpose-built concert venue Bridgewater Hall. You can also see major international artists at Manchester Arena and other stadia or see independent and upcoming musicians at venues such as Band on the Wall.