School of Music

Course length: 3 years (4 years with Year in Industry)

Contact: Dr Ian Sapiro (Admissions Tutor)
Email: music@leeds.ac.uk
Phone: 0113 3432583

BA Music focuses on all aspects of popular and world musics in a course that encourages personal and intellectual development, and which equips you with the fundamental skills expected of a good music graduate. The first level lays the foundation for further study by exposing you to music of many genres and periods, from Baroque sonatas to the latest avant-garde experiments of the 21st century. It introduces you to a variety of analytical and critical approaches, which in later years are developed in modules covering topics as diverse as the supernatural scenes in opera, the music of Duke Ellington, the political and social contexts of Edwardian and Victorian music, or the composers of the Russian nationalist school. The versatile structure offers specialist pathways which explore music from a range of socio-cultural, historical, psychological and technological perspectives. Both solo and ensemble performance, in the School's orchestra, choir, and contemporary music ensembles, are available at all levels of the course.

Year in Industry option

You will have the option to work in the music industry as part of your degree. For more information see our Year in Industry page

BA Music - W300 (opens in a new window)

The structure of the BA Music course is as follows:

You are required to achieve one of the following (or equivalent):

A level grades ABB, normally the A will be in Music (other A levels can include General Studies, but not Practical Music)

Scottish Highers: AAABB (A in Music)

BTECs: a minimum of Distinction, Distinction, Merit in a music (not music technology) specialism. Evidence of musical participation is also normally required in the form of ABRSM grade 8 music theory and advanced practical examinations (grade 7 or above)

Please note that, unless otherwise stated, practical grades are not a requirement for entry onto this programme of study. However, if you want to study performance you will need ABRSM or Trinity Guildhall grade 8 merit.

Aside from offering an enjoyable and fulfilling academic experience, this degree offers a natural pathway to a career as a music teacher or performer, and offers skills that will be valued by prospective employers in other fields. The study and performance of music develops independent thinking, and a range of analytical and communication skills that are highly valued in the professional world you will enter after university. Many of our graduates work as teachers, composers, arts administrators, performers or go on to further study, whilst others work in a range of other careers which value the skills provided by a music degree. A degree from the University of Leeds is highly respected and will provide you with an excellent foundation for your professional life.