
Performance - MMus / PgCert / PgDip
Currently viewing course to start in 2026/27 Entry.
The principal aim of our Master of Music (MMus) course is to provide you with knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in your chosen branch(es) of the music profession, giving you a head-start in addressing the challenges involved in becoming a professional musician....
- Level Postgraduate Taught
- Study mode Full Time/Part Time
- Award MMus / PgCert / PgDip
- Start date September 2026
- Fees View course fees
- Subject
- Location Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
This course is:
Open to International Students
Overview
The principal aim of our Master of Music (MMus) course is to provide you with knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in your chosen branch(es) of the music profession, giving you a head-start in addressing the challenges involved in becoming a professional musician.
The course is suitable for both recent graduates and suitably qualified mature students, with a range of support to ensure that you leave Royal Birmingham Conservatoire ready to pursue a musical career.
A distinctive feature of Royal Birmingham Conservatoire’s postgraduate provision is that it will give you the opportunity to make choices within your course directly relevant to your future career aspirations, both within your Principal Study area and in your supporting studies. All MMus and PgDip routes include a core Career Development module designed to get you thinking about your future professional plans, and a broad menu of optional Professional Development modules designed to help you work towards achieving your personal career aspirations. You will also take a core module designed to develop your skills as a researcher or informed practitioner.
You will have the opportunity to study in one of several Principal Study areas, most of which are also offered at PgDip or PgCert level.
We also offer the opportunity to study for an MMus via our 12-month route. To be eligible for this route, applicants must be able to show evidence of an extremely high level of achievement in the Principal Study area and a strong academic record at undergraduate level (or equivalent). If you are interested in the 12-month route, please email an initial enquiry about your potential eligibility to conservatoire.admissions@bcu.ac.uk, as it is not possible to apply for this route via UCAS.
Performance pathways
Instrumental Performance (MMus, PgDip, PgCert)
This specialism prepares you for a solo, chamber or orchestral career. It is available to students pursuing orchestral instruments, keyboard instruments and other solo instruments such as recorder, guitar, and saxophone, with a route also offered for bowed string and guitar ensembles. We also welcome instrumentalists and singers who are developing fusions of folk music with other genres, students wishing to focus on song writing, and woodwind players who do not wish to follow the traditional orchestral route but would prefer to pursue a career as a multi-instrumentalist in musical theatre.
Read more about our instrumental departments:
Vocal Performance (MMus, PgDip, PgCert)
This route offers advanced-level training in singing. You're encouraged and enabled to increase your experience as a performer and to broaden your repertoire, though you can also take the opportunity to specialise if you wish. You'll enjoy regular opportunities to sing in a variety of contexts, both as a soloist and in ensembles with other performers. Read more about Vocal Performance.
Orchestral Performance (Strings) (MMus, PgDip)
Developed in partnership with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO), this route is for advanced level string players considering professional orchestral auditions and on the brink of a professional career. You will spend a significant amount of rehearsal time in the CBSO alongside one or more dedicated host players who will act as mentors. You may also be offered opportunities to play at the back of the section to gain further experience. In addition to developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills, and stylistic awareness, you will expand your knowledge of orchestral repertoire, learn how to prepare for rehearsal in the most efficient way, develop strategies which will help you to integrate within your section, and build confidence in preparing for orchestral auditions. Read more about our Strings department.
Please note, there will be a maximum of one Orchestral Performance student in each CBSO string section in any given year, so please email Conservatoire.Admissions@bcu.ac.uk to check availability of places before applying.
Jazz (MMus, PgDip, PgCert)
Designed for recent graduates and suitably qualified mature students, these programmes provide high quality advanced-level tuition, enabling you to specialise either as a Jazz performer or instigator. You will benefit from regular individual specialist tuition from professional jazz musicians active on today’s scene. There will be an emphasis on the art of improvisation as well as regular opportunities to rehearse and perform with small and large jazz ensembles.
What's covered in this course?
- Regular individual tuition in your Principal Study area from leading UK and internationally renowned performers, practitioners, teachers, and researchers.
- Bespoke support classes in musicianship and repertoire.
- The opportunity to participate in a wide variety of creative projects, including interdisciplinary collaborations.
- Frequent opportunities to perform, both within Departmental activities and in concerts.
- Access to forums, seminars and masterclasses with distinguished visiting artists, composers, and performers.
- Access to the Conservatoire’s broad range of ensemble activities, including chamber music, operatic productions, Brass Band, Wind Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra, ‘Repertoire’ and ‘Pops’ Orchestras, Thallein (Contemporary Music) Ensemble, and the Folk Ensemble.
- The opportunity to tailor your course to your individual needs through wide-ranging Professional Development modules.
- A chance to network with leading professionals from around the world.

I had a wonderful time on the course – it was intense but also very fulfilling. I felt my singing came on enormously with teachers and coaches who nurtured and challenged me, and performances that really moved me forward. I also enjoyed the variety of academic modules to choose from, which were all well taught and supported and felt relevant to my practice.
Katie Gilbert, Soprano

I would not be where I am today in my career without the support of the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. I benefitted immensely from my Principal Study tutor, but I also had the opportunity to work with tutors from the Strings and Vocal departments for chamber music and lieder coaching. I believe the openness and collaborative atmosphere is what makes the Conservatoire unique. I have also had many high-profile performance opportunities throughout the United Kingdom, thus broadening my professional network and setting up my performance career.
Edward Leung, piano
Open Day
Join us on campus where you'll be able to explore our facilities and accommodation in person, and chat to staff and students from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire.
Next Open Day: 12 June 2025
Entry Requirements
Essential requirements
UK students should normally hold an honours degree, ideally but not necessarily in Music.
Non-UK students should hold a Bachelor's degree or a similar degree-equivalent diploma, ideally but not necessarily in Music.
Applicants for most Principal Study areas will be auditioned live, but some will require you to submit a portfolio in addition to or instead of a live audition/interview. For full audition requirements and audition advice, please visit the Music Auditions section of the Conservatoire website.
Applying with international qualifications
See below for further information on applying as an international student.
If you have a qualification that is not listed, please contact us.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: MMus
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Instrumental Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 2 years
- £12,880 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
- Part Time
- 3 years
- £2,147 per 20 credit module
- Apply via UCAS
Award: PgCert
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Instrumental Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Part Time
- 1 year
- Show fees
- Apply via UCAS
- £2147 per 20 credits
- Year 1 - 60 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
Award: PgDip
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Instrumental Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 1 year
- £12,880 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
- Part Time
- 2 years
- Show fees
- Apply via UCAS
- £2147 per 20 credits
- Year 1 - 60 credits
- Year 2 - 60 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
Award: MMus
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Jazz
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 2 years
- £12,880 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
- Part Time
- 3 years
- £2,147 per 20 credit module
- Apply via UCAS
Award: PgCert
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Jazz
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Part Time
- 1 year
- Show fees
- Apply via UCAS
- £2147 per 20 credits
- Year 1 - 60 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
Award: PgDip
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Jazz
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 1 year
- £12,880 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
- Part Time
- 2 years
- Show fees
- Apply via UCAS
- £2147 per 20 credits
- Year 1 - 60 credits
- Year 2 - 60 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
Award: MMus
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Orchestral Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 2 years
- £12,880 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
Award: PgDip
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Orchestral Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 1 year
- £12,880 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
- Part Time
- 2 years
- Show fees
- Apply via UCAS
- £2147 per 20 credits
- Year 1 - 60 credits
- Year 2 - 60 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
Award: MMus
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Vocal Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 2 years
- £12,880 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
- Part Time
- 3 years
- £2,147 per 20 credit module
- Apply via UCAS
Award: PgCert
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Vocal Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Part Time
- 1 year
- Show fees
- Apply via UCAS
- £2147 per 20 credits
- Year 1 - 60 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
Award: PgDip
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Vocal Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 1 year
- £12,880 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
- Part Time
- 2 years
- Show fees
- Apply via UCAS
- £2147 per 20 credits
- Year 1 - 60 credits
- Year 2 - 60 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: MMus
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Instrumental Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 2 years
- £28,460 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
Award: PgDip
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Instrumental Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 1 year
- £28,460 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
Award: MMus
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Jazz
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 2 years
- £28,460 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
Award: PgDip
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Jazz
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 1 year
- £28,460 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
Award: MMus
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Orchestral Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 2 years
- £28,460 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
Award: PgDip
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Orchestral Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 1 year
- £28,460 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
Award: MMus
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Vocal Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 2 years
- £28,460 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
Award: PgDip
Starting: Sep 2026
Pathway: Vocal Performance
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 1 year
- £28,460 in 2026/27
- Apply via UCAS
An intensive 12-month MMus route may be proposed by an audition panel for any candidates who demonstrate an exceptional level of achievement in their audition and who can provide evidence of a consistently strong previous academic record. It is not possible to apply for direct entry to this intensive programme.
Completing your application
Further information on writing your personal statement can be found on the UCAS Conservatoires website.
Course in Depth
PG Cert
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete one of the following CORE modules (totalling 60 credits):
As a postgraduate instrumentalist or singer, the Principal Study 1: Instrumental/Vocal Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area and it is thus at the heart of your conservatoire studies.
As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a performer, you will spend considerable time developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills and stylistic awareness, expanding your knowledge of the repertoire, refining your platform manner and presentation skills, and, in some cases, advancing your collaborative performance skills. Students taking the Global Traditional Music Performance specialism will be encouraged to form bands or ensembles appropriate to their specialist area of music.
Your work in this module is supported by one-to-one tuition and a variety of related activities in your Principal Study area, including performance classes, masterclasses and department-specific workshops (e.g. languages and movement for singers, reed-making for wind players, and so on). You will necessarily devote a considerable amount of time to individual practice.
As a postgraduate percussionist, the Principal Study 1: Percussion module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area. As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a performer, you will spend considerable time developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills and stylistic awareness, expanding your knowledge of the repertoire, refining your platform manner, presentation and organisational skills (i.e. including percussion set-up) and, in some cases, advancing your collaborative performance skills.
As a postgraduate instrumentalist, singer or singer-songwriter working in world and/or folk music traditions, the Principal Study 1: Global Traditional Music Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area and it is thus at the heart of your conservatoire studies. Since the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a performer, you will spend considerable time developing skills relating to your particular specialism, for example, technical facility, musicianship and interpretative skills, furthering your skills in transcription, composition, arranging and songwriting, and leading your own ensemble/band. You may choose to study a single traditional music in-depth or develop your own fusion that includes elements of folk/world/traditional music as well as other genres.
As a postgraduate string player following our Orchestral Performance pathway at postgraduate level, the Principal Study 1: Orchestral Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area. As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as an orchestral string player, you will spend a significant amount of rehearsal time with the CBSO alongside one or more dedicated host players who will act as mentors, as well as opportunities to play at the back of the section.
In addition to developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills and stylistic awareness, you will expand your knowledge of orchestral repertoire, learn how to prepare for rehearsal in the most efficient way, develop strategies which will help you to integrate within your section, both musically (in terms of blend, intonation and so on) and socially, and build confidence in preparing for orchestral auditions.
As a postgraduate Jazz student, the Principal Study 1: Jazz Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area.
As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a jazz performer, you will spend considerable time not only developing your technique alongside your musicianship and improvisation skills, but also expanding your knowledge of the tradition and advancing your experience as a collaborative performer and leader.
Your work in this module is supported by one-to-one tuition and a variety of related activities in the Jazz Department and wider Conservatoire, including weekly performance platforms, termly performance platform festivals, masterclasses (led by guest international artists) and workshops by touring bands, as well as a number of special events throughout the year, for example the Thelonious Monk Festival (Monkathon), the Cheltenham International Jazz Festival, and regular collaborations with our partners in Paris, Berlin and Siena.
As a postgraduate Jazz student, the Principal Study 1: Jazz Instigator module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area.
As the focus of this module is entirely on your development as an instigator in the context of jazz performance, you will spend considerable time not only on developing your own playing, but also advancing your leadership and directing skills and your mentoring and coaching abilities. You will work on your rehearsal technique and stagecraft, and gain experience of working autonomously. You will additionally enhance your own specialist knowledge and your research skills.
Your work in this module is supported by one-to-one tuition and mentoring. A number of one-to-one hours can be allocated to teachers and mentors from outside the Jazz Department, for example with Classical composers, promotors, band leaders, artists, and researchers from within the faculty. You will have regular contact with promoters of jazz and the creative arts.
PG Dip
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete TWO CORE modules (totalling 80 credits):
- The Career Development module (20 credits), and
- Principal Study 1 module (60 credits, chosen according to the specialism – see below).
Members of the music profession require not only high-level specialist skills but also the ability to target those skills strategically to different circumstances. This module focuses on a range of different aspects of a musician’s professional development that directly relate to the music industry and their preparation for it: from self-promotion and self-management, to funding and wellbeing. It is thus central to a programme which aims to prepare you for a career as a musician in the 21st century.
It requires you, near the beginning of your postgraduate studies, to reflect ambitiously yet realistically on your professional aspirations, and to formulate a plan that helps you stand the best chance of achieving your goals. Weekly workshops, delivered by internal staff and external professionals, will focus on the practicalities of a career in music, providing you with a better insight into the industry you will be entering, as well as encouraging you to be self-reflective about your own personal and professional development needs.
You must complete one of the Principal Study modules below (Principal Study areas chosen will be dependent upon the specialist pathway chosen by the student):
As a postgraduate instrumentalist or singer, the Principal Study 1: Instrumental/Vocal Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area and it is thus at the heart of your conservatoire studies.
As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a performer, you will spend considerable time developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills and stylistic awareness, expanding your knowledge of the repertoire, refining your platform manner and presentation skills, and, in some cases, advancing your collaborative performance skills. Students taking the Global Traditional Music Performance specialism will be encouraged to form bands or ensembles appropriate to their specialist area of music.
Your work in this module is supported by one-to-one tuition and a variety of related activities in your Principal Study area, including performance classes, masterclasses and department-specific workshops (e.g. languages and movement for singers, reed-making for wind players, and so on). You will necessarily devote a considerable amount of time to individual practice.
As a postgraduate percussionist, the Principal Study 1: Percussion module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area. As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a performer, you will spend considerable time developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills and stylistic awareness, expanding your knowledge of the repertoire, refining your platform manner, presentation and organisational skills (i.e. including percussion set-up) and, in some cases, advancing your collaborative performance skills.
As a postgraduate instrumentalist, singer or singer-songwriter working in world and/or folk music traditions, the Principal Study 1: Global Traditional Music Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area and it is thus at the heart of your conservatoire studies. Since the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a performer, you will spend considerable time developing skills relating to your particular specialism, for example, technical facility, musicianship and interpretative skills, furthering your skills in transcription, composition, arranging and songwriting, and leading your own ensemble/band. You may choose to study a single traditional music in-depth or develop your own fusion that includes elements of folk/world/traditional music as well as other genres.
As a postgraduate string player following our Orchestral Performance pathway at postgraduate level, the Principal Study 1: Orchestral Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area. As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as an orchestral string player, you will spend a significant amount of rehearsal time with the CBSO alongside one or more dedicated host players who will act as mentors, as well as opportunities to play at the back of the section.
In addition to developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills and stylistic awareness, you will expand your knowledge of orchestral repertoire, learn how to prepare for rehearsal in the most efficient way, develop strategies which will help you to integrate within your section, both musically (in terms of blend, intonation and so on) and socially, and build confidence in preparing for orchestral auditions.
As a postgraduate Jazz student, the Principal Study 1: Jazz Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area.
As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a jazz performer, you will spend considerable time not only developing your technique alongside your musicianship and improvisation skills, but also expanding your knowledge of the tradition and advancing your experience as a collaborative performer and leader.
Your work in this module is supported by one-to-one tuition and a variety of related activities in the Jazz Department and wider Conservatoire, including weekly performance platforms, termly performance platform festivals, masterclasses (led by guest international artists) and workshops by touring bands, as well as a number of special events throughout the year, for example the Thelonious Monk Festival (Monkathon), the Cheltenham International Jazz Festival, and regular collaborations with our partners in Paris, Berlin and Siena.
As a postgraduate Jazz student, the Principal Study 1: Jazz Instigator module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area.
As the focus of this module is entirely on your development as an instigator in the context of jazz performance, you will spend considerable time not only on developing your own playing, but also advancing your leadership and directing skills and your mentoring and coaching abilities. You will work on your rehearsal technique and stagecraft, and gain experience of working autonomously. You will additionally enhance your own specialist knowledge and your research skills.
Your work in this module is supported by one-to-one tuition and mentoring. A number of one-to-one hours can be allocated to teachers and mentors from outside the Jazz Department, for example with Classical composers, promotors, band leaders, artists, and researchers from within the faculty. You will have regular contact with promoters of jazz and the creative arts.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 40 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules.
Each module listed is worth 20 credits.
- Concepts in Musicology
- Contemporary Music Concepts and Practice
- Music Technology in Performance
- Critical Editing Techniques
- Documentation
- Experimental Performance in Context(s)
- Historical Instrument Performance
- Historical Performance Practice
- Independent Scholarship in Music
- Music and Ideas
- Music Technology in Context
- Orchestration
- Performing and Producing in the Studio
- Professional Music Criticism
- Self-Promotion Project
- Teaching Matters: Principles and Practice
- Work Placement
- Writing Music for Media
- Conference Paper
- Preparation for Research
- Music, Community and Wellbeing (BMus module)
Core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
MMus
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete THREE CORE modules (totalling 140 credits):
- The Career Development module (20 credits), and
- Both Principal Study 1 and 2 modules (each 60 credits, chosen according to the specialism – see below).
Members of the music profession require not only high-level specialist skills but also the ability to target those skills strategically to different circumstances. This module focuses on a range of different aspects of a musician’s professional development that directly relate to the music industry and their preparation for it: from self-promotion and self-management, to funding and wellbeing. It is thus central to a programme which aims to prepare you for a career as a musician in the 21st century.
It requires you, near the beginning of your postgraduate studies, to reflect ambitiously yet realistically on your professional aspirations, and to formulate a plan that helps you stand the best chance of achieving your goals. Weekly workshops, delivered by internal staff and external professionals, will focus on the practicalities of a career in music, providing you with a better insight into the industry you will be entering, as well as encouraging you to be self-reflective about your own personal and professional development needs.
You must complete one of the Principal Study modules below (Principal Study areas chosen will be dependent upon the specialist pathway chosen by the student):
As a postgraduate instrumentalist or singer, the Principal Study 1: Instrumental/Vocal Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area and it is thus at the heart of your conservatoire studies.
As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a performer, you will spend considerable time developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills and stylistic awareness, expanding your knowledge of the repertoire, refining your platform manner and presentation skills, and, in some cases, advancing your collaborative performance skills. Students taking the Global Traditional Music Performance specialism will be encouraged to form bands or ensembles appropriate to their specialist area of music.
Your work in this module is supported by one-to-one tuition and a variety of related activities in your Principal Study area, including performance classes, masterclasses and department-specific workshops (e.g. languages and movement for singers, reed-making for wind players, and so on). You will necessarily devote a considerable amount of time to individual practice.
As a postgraduate percussionist, the Principal Study 1: Percussion module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area. As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a performer, you will spend considerable time developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills and stylistic awareness, expanding your knowledge of the repertoire, refining your platform manner, presentation and organisational skills (i.e. including percussion set-up) and, in some cases, advancing your collaborative performance skills.
As a postgraduate instrumentalist, singer or singer-songwriter working in world and/or folk music traditions, the Principal Study 1: Global Traditional Music Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area and it is thus at the heart of your conservatoire studies. Since the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a performer, you will spend considerable time developing skills relating to your particular specialism, for example, technical facility, musicianship and interpretative skills, furthering your skills in transcription, composition, arranging and songwriting, and leading your own ensemble/band. You may choose to study a single traditional music in-depth or develop your own fusion that includes elements of folk/world/traditional music as well as other genres.
As a postgraduate string player following our Orchestral Performance pathway at postgraduate level, the Principal Study 1: Orchestral Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area. As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as an orchestral string player, you will spend a significant amount of rehearsal time with the CBSO alongside one or more dedicated host players who will act as mentors, as well as opportunities to play at the back of the section. In addition to developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills and stylistic awareness, you will expand your knowledge of orchestral repertoire, learn how to prepare for rehearsal in the most efficient way, develop strategies which will help you to integrate within your section, both musically (in terms of blend, intonation and so on) and socially, and build confidence in preparing for orchestral auditions.
As a postgraduate Jazz student, the Principal Study 1: Jazz Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area.
As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a jazz performer, you will spend considerable time not only developing your technique alongside your musicianship and improvisation skills, but also expanding your knowledge of the tradition and advancing your experience as a collaborative performer and leader.
Your work in this module is supported by one-to-one tuition and a variety of related activities in the Jazz Department and wider Conservatoire, including weekly performance platforms, termly performance platform festivals, masterclasses (led by guest international artists) and workshops by touring bands, as well as a number of special events throughout the year, for example the Thelonious Monk Festival (Monkathon), the Cheltenham International Jazz Festival, and regular collaborations with our partners in Paris, Berlin and Siena.
As a postgraduate Jazz student, the Principal Study 1: Jazz Instigator module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area.
As the focus of this module is entirely on your development as an instigator in the context of jazz performance, you will spend considerable time not only on developing your own playing, but also advancing your leadership and directing skills and your mentoring and coaching abilities. You will work on your rehearsal technique and stagecraft, and gain experience of working autonomously. You will additionally enhance your own specialist knowledge and your research skills.
Your work in this module is supported by one-to-one tuition and mentoring. A number of one-to-one hours can be allocated to teachers and mentors from outside the Jazz Department, for example with Classical composers, promotors, band leaders, artists, and researchers from within the faculty. You will have regular contact with promoters of jazz and the creative arts.
You must complete one of the Principal Study modules below (Principal Study areas chosen will be dependent upon the specialist pathway chosen by the student):
As a postgraduate instrumentalist or singer, the Principal Study 1: Instrumental/Vocal Performance module enables you to advance your training in your specialist area and it is thus at the heart of your conservatoire studies.
As the focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as a performer, you will spend considerable time developing your technical facility, musicianship, interpretative skills and stylistic awareness, expanding your knowledge of the repertoire, refining your platform manner and presentation skills, and, in some cases, advancing your collaborative performance skills. Students taking the Global Traditional Music Performance specialism will be encouraged to form bands or ensembles appropriate to their specialist area of music.
Your work in this module is supported by one-to-one tuition and a variety of related activities in your Principal Study area, including performance classes, masterclasses and department-specific workshops (e.g. languages and movement for singers, reed-making for wind players, and so on). You will necessarily devote a considerable amount of time to individual practice.
As a postgraduate percussionist, the Principal Study 2: Percussion module builds on the performance skills acquired in the Principal Study 1 module, encouraging independent decision-making, the development of an individual musical personality, and a professional approach to the performance context. The module clearly supports you in adopting an ever-increasing degree of professionalism in all aspects. You will continue to advance your technical facility, musicianship and interpretative skills; to further enhance, through research, your stylistic awareness and knowledge of the repertoire; to develop expertise in programming and build stamina. The assessments will enhance your awareness of what is required of a professional performer in the chosen context.
As a postgraduate instrumentalist, singer or singer-songwriter working in world and/or folk music traditions, the Principal Study 2: Global Traditional Music Performance module builds on the performance skills acquired in the Principal Study Project 1 module, encouraging independent decision-making, the development of an individual musical personality, and a professional approach to the performance context. The module clearly supports you in adopting an ever-increasing degree of professionalism in all aspects. You will continue to advance your technical facility, musicianship and interpretative skills alongside enhanced skills in transcription, composition, arranging, song writing and ensemble/band leadership. You may choose to study a single traditional music in-depth or develop your own fusion that includes elements of folk/world/traditional music as well as other genres. Furthermore, you will develop expertise in programming and build stamina. The assessments will enhance your awareness of what is required of a professional performer in the chosen context.
As a postgraduate string player following our Orchestral Performance pathway at postgraduate level, the Principal Study 2: Orchestral Performance module builds on the performance skills acquired in the Principal Study Project 1 module. The focus of this module is entirely on your own continued development as an orchestral string player, and especially on developing your capacity to develop your own playing within the orchestral context. The module clearly supports you in adopting an ever- increasing degree of professionalism in all aspects. Further experience within the CBSO will lead not only to the enhancement of your individual playing skills but to greater confidence in developing your own playing within the orchestra and a fuller awareness of the professional context. You will continue to advance your technical facility, musicianship and interpretative skills, and to further enhance, through research, your stylistic awareness and knowledge of the repertoire. A sound knowledge of standard orchestral repertoire in particular, familiarity with the typical orchestral audition process and experience of playing within a professional orchestra are all likely to improve your chances of progression into the profession.
For a postgraduate Jazz student, the Principal Study 2: Jazz Performance module builds on the technical, musical and improvisation skills acquired in the Principal Study 1: Jazz Performance or Jazz Instigator module, encouraging a greater sophistication of approach, independent decision-making in relation to the music-making, and the emergence of an individual ‘voice’. The module clearly provides professionally-relevant experience for the intending jazz musician.
The focus of this module is entirely on your continued growth in this field. It will thus be concerned with the continued development of your technical, musicianship and improvisation skills, your knowledge of the tradition and your experience as a collaborative performer and leader. In addition, it will encourage you to develop your own original sound and concept, and enable you to enhance your musical communication and interaction in the ensemble setting.
For a postgraduate Jazz student, the Principal Study Project 2: Jazz Instigator module builds on the groundwork of the Principal Study 1: Jazz Instigator or the Principal Study 1: Jazz Performance module. It demands not only a high level of performance skills, but also encourages independent decision-making in relation to the student’s own project, the development of an individual artistic concept, and an awareness of the contemporary jazz market (i.e. the professional context). The module clearly provides professionally-relevant experience for the intending jazz instigator.
Indeed, the focus of this module is entirely on your continued growth in this role. It will thus be concerned with the further development not only of your own skills as a performer, but also as a leader, director, mentor and coach. You will continue to hone your rehearsal technique and stagecraft, and to gain further experience of working autonomously. You will continue to expand your own specialist knowledge and to exercise your research skills.
In order to complete this course, a student must successfully complete at least 100 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules:
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THREE Professional Development modules (20 credits each), and
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ONE MMus optional module (40 credits)
Each module listed is worth 20 credits.
- Concepts in Musicology
- Contemporary Music Concepts and Practice
- Music Technology in Performance
- Critical Editing Techniques
- Documentation
- Experimental Performance in Context(s)
- Historical Instrument Performance
- Historical Performance Practice
- Independent Scholarship in Music
- Music and Ideas
- Music Technology in Context
- Orchestration
- Performing and Producing in the Studio
- Professional Music Criticism
- Self-Promotion Project
- Teaching Matters: Principles and Practice
- Work Placement
- Writing Music for Media
- Conference Paper
- Preparation for Research
- Music, Community and Wellbeing (BMus module)
- Research Project
- Critical Edition
- Lecture-Recital
- The Reflective Practioner
- There are two pathways through this module: 1. Professional Placement, and 2. Creative Interdisciplinary Artist.
Core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Principal Study Project modules
The content of these modules varies according to the instrument. As the exit point for PgCert and PgDip, Principal Study Project 1 modules are generally more prescriptive than Principal Study Project 2 modules (MMus only); however, both allow scope for you to explore repertoire of your own choice and to develop a specialist area if you wish.
The possibilities are too numerous to list here, but, for example, pianists may elect to combine solo and collaborative piano, or to specialise in one of the other; orchestral instrumentalists have the opportunity to focus on orchestral preparation; and there are opportunities for students to concentrate on a particular repertory (e.g. contemporary). More details are available upon request.
Preparation for the Principal Study Project modules is supported by individual specialist tuition, as well as by departmental activities throughout the course.
Professional development options
These are listed above, together with brief descriptions (Note: not all may run every year). They are designed to cover a range of areas of activity, enabling students to focus on areas directly relevant to their interests and their predicted future professional needs.
Employability
At Royal Birmingham Conservatoire we provide a friendly and supportive environment in which you can pursue your postgraduate studies. This is a time when you need to think particularly carefully and strategically about the direction of your developing career as a musician. We therefore encourage you to be ambitious in pursuing your aspirations, and endeavour to provide you with the flexibility to mould your course to your individual needs, both with your Principal Study area and in complementary modules.
We work with you to develop your portfolio whilst you are studying with us and proactive students are able to gain significant experience and built contacts externally.
On our Performance pathway you will forge important links with industry professionals through extensive performance opportunities. You will develop a wide range of musical, practical and business skills in order to launch or enhance your career.
Whether you are an orchestral, brass band or theatre musician, an opera or choral singer, an English folk fiddle player with an undergraduate degree, or a self-taught djembe player, our Performance pathways aim to equip you with essential skills. You will be able to choose from a wide range of Professional Development modules in areas such as performing, composing, recording and teaching to underpin and enhance your Performance specialism. The course will form a bridge between your studies and the professional music world, giving you the edge in this vibrant but competitive area of music.
The MMus is also designed to be able to prepare students for doctoral studies.
Facilities & Staff

Royal Birmingham Conservatoire’s £57 million music building opened in September 2017, and is located on Birmingham City University’s City Centre Campus in the Eastside ‘learning quarter’ of the city.
This state-of-the-art music facility includes five public performance venues – a 440-seat Concert Hall, 150-seat Recital Hall, Organ Studio, Eastside Jazz Club and the experimental black box performance venue known as The Lab. As well as these stunning performance venues, we have nearly 100 practice spaces, including 70 small practice rooms and larger ensemble rooms and workshops.
Our home is the first conservatoire built in the digital age, and as such it has been vital to ensure that the technical infrastructure installed is on par with any advanced commercial facility. We have seven recording studios, a mastering suite, a distance learning hub, and all of our performance venues feature high specification audio-visual equipment that enables interconnectivity and advanced functionality throughout the building.
These impressive modern facilities guarantee that we are able to excel in our unique dual purpose of providing the highest standard of music education deserved by our students, as well as meeting our role as a concert and performance venue for the people of Birmingham, taking our place in the vibrant cultural landscape of the UK’s second city.
For further staff information please visit the relevant department page for your specialist area of study: https://www.bcu.ac.uk/conservatoire/music/departments
Our staff
Dr Luan Shaw
Associate Professor (Music Education), Director of Postgraduate Studies (Music), and Associate Head of Junior Conservatoire
Dr Luan Shaw is Associate Professor (Music Education) and Director of Postgraduate Studies (Music) at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire where she has taught since 2011. She is also Associate Head of the Junior Department and leads Pedagogy provision across BMus 4 and postgraduate courses. She is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education...
More about LuanDr Siân Derry
Assistant Director of Postgraduate Studies (MA Musicology Course Director, Professional Performance - AdvPgDip Course Director)
Siân Derry is a Senior Lecturer in Music, and Assistant Director of Postgraduate Studies (MA Musicology Course Director, Professional Performance - AdvPgDip Course Director) at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. She joined the Conservatoire in 2015, having previously taught at the University of Manchester. Siân completed her BMus Hons degree...
More about SiânBeetung Goo
Assistant Director of Postgraduate Studies (Director of International Student Support Programme)
Beetung is a Teaching Fellow at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire. She joined the staff as International Student Mentor in 2014, soon after completing her master’s degree here. The learning experience of international students is central to Beetung’s work: she has developed Royal Birmingham Conservatoire’s International Student Support Programme,...
More about Beetung