Musicology

Contextual Studies: Performance Traditions 1 (Year 1)

A central principle behind the course philosophy is to create informed musicians who are able to make educated choices about their own practice. An awareness of different performance styles and traditions is therefore crucial not only to all performers, but also to composers, who can draw on this knowledge in their own compositions.

In year 1, the relationship between composer and performer in music dating from c. 1600-1900 is explored by considering the extent to which performers were expected to interpret written scores. In an age when even players of modern instruments may be required to adopt techniques and performance practices of earlier periods, all performers need to be aware both of sources of evidence for past practice and their implications.

Contextual Studies: Performance Traditions 2 (Year 2)

In year 2, the module responds to the principle that the modern, informed performer must be aware of performance practices (both past and present) and be able to contextualise these in relation to relevant source materials and evidence. In addition to exploring performance issues not previously studied in year 1, this module will introduce additional topics that examine changes in musical performance up through early-21st century practices, while also offering insights into the evolution of musical notation, the changing role of the musical ‘text’, and the impact of technologies on musical practice (e.g., recordings and the recording studio).

Composers and music technologists will also engage with these issues, providing greater understanding of how existing approaches to musical devising or non-standard forms of notation may be put into context with their own practice.

Contextual Studies Specialisms (Year 3)

In year 3, you will choose two specialist areas of study and the topics offered reflect the research enthusiasms of our staff.

In one semester, you will study a specific aspect of a historical period and in the other, a particular genre or musicological subdiscipline. Each of the specialisms includes key musicological concepts, elements of analytical insight and discussion often centres on relevance for aspects of practice. In year 4, students can take further Contextual Studies Specialisms courses and may also pursue musicological interests in the Final Project module and beyond.

MMus, PGDip

Students on these courses can access a host of musicology modules as part of our professional development options and enable you to choose modules that appeal to your individual interests. These have recently included:

• Concepts in Musicology
• Historical Performance Practice
• Critical Editing Techniques
• Independent Scholarship in Music
• Contemporary Music Concepts and Practice
• Experimental Performance in Context
• Music & Ideas
• Conference Paper
• Preparation for Research
• Research Project