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

Requirements of the PhD in Performance include the presentation of a public recital or public lecture-recital of approximately ninety minutes’ duration, together with either a supporting thesis (of between 40,000 and 50,000 words for PhD; of between 20,000 and 25,000 words for MPhil), or an appropriate scholarly edition with analytical commentary.

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