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Performance

Performance is a specialisation available in our suite of Music research degrees (MPhil, PhD).

This scheme is suitable for graduates in Music who wish to combine practical and academic musical study to doctoral level.

We offer a broad range of expertise, but the following areas are of particular strength:

  • keyboard instruments, especially piano, harpsichord and organ

Assessment

For PhD in Music Performance, the submission will take one of the following forms:

  • a 90-minute performance plus a thesis of ca. 50,000 words or a scholarly edition with critical commentary
  • a portfolio of performances of ca. 220-minutes in total, supported by a written commentary of ca. 20,000 words

Performances may be live or a sound and video recording (DVD or equivalent), or a combination.

Post-examination, a recording of the performance(s), in a format agreed by the School of Music, shall form part of the durable record.

Practice-led submissions are assessed by the same generic criteria as any other Cardiff University MPhil or PhD. In this regard, a practice-led submission should represent sustained research into an aspect of musical performance, rather than samples of professional practice. Research in this context is understood as a process of investigation leading to new insights, effectively shared.

Distinctive features

  • internationally recognised expertise and experience in historical performance/performance practice
  • excellent performance opportunities and facilities
  • regular lectures, master classes and workshops given by distinguished scholars and performers
  • a collection of period instruments for use by students
  • students attend a postgraduate discussion group which tackles a broad range of issues
  • the School organises workshops and masterclasses to enhance the student experience in composition and performance

Contacts

Administrative contact(s)

Huw Rhys Thomas

Postgraduate Research (PGR) and Research Administrator

Welsh speaking
Email
thomash6@cardiff.ac.uk
Telephone
+44 (0)29 2251 1092

Academic contact(s)

Dr Caroline Rae

Reader, Director of Postgraduate Research

Email
rae@cardiff.ac.uk
Telephone
+44 (0)29 2087 4391

Funding

You can search our studentships or find out more about funding.

Tuition fees

Students from the UK

Get the latest information on postgraduate fees.

Students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland

Get the latest information on postgraduate fees.

Students from the rest of the world (international)

Get the latest information on postgraduate fees.

Programme information

For programme structure, entry requirements and how to apply, visit the Music programme.

View programme
See the range of PhD studentships and projects currently available.

Related courses

Related subjects