Music Education – (M.A.)

The Music Department at Kingston welcomes UK, EU and international students to study for an MA in Music Education. The programme is designed to enhance the knowledge, skills and understanding of both current and prospective music educators. You learn through academic study and practice within both a UK and international music education context.

What will you study?

You will have the unique opportunity to investigate the UK system of music education, consider major issues in international music education research and undertake a comparative study of music education practices across different cultures. You will develop and implement a musical project within an educational environment and undertake a substantial research project on a topic of your own choice.

Alongside this core of study, which encompasses key research issues in music as well as in music education, you can choose from a variety of option modules and develop new skills to exploit in your own teaching.

As part of the broader musical community you will also be able to further enhance your performance skills by participating in some of the many University ensembles.

The range of events and lectures in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences enhances your studies and adds an extra perspective to your learning. You will have the chance to get involved with a range of music groups at the University, including:

* orchestras - including a wind orchestra;
* a chorus, jazz vocal ensemble and chamber choir;
* ensembles for wind brass, early music, new music, Afro-contemporary and Djembe;
* Javanese gamelan;
* chamber groups;
* a big band; and
* many jazz, rock and pop groups.

Regular events include:

* an annual series of concerts at leading local venues - featuring the groups above plus the winners of student competitions in composition, concerto playing and conducting;
* the chance to participate in Borough events such as the annual Kingston Arts Festival and Kingston Early Music Festival;
* smaller events such as lunchtime concerts within the University and community venues, such as hospitals and schools;
* masterclasses and workshops by national and international performers and composers - recent visitors include Robert Taub, Jane Manning, Steve Martland, the Arditti String Quartet, Brian Ferneyhough, Kathron Sturrock, Anna Noakes and Paul Archibald;
* research seminars - covering issues ranging from musical iconography to examining musical performance.

The vibrant student-run MAD (Music And Design) society helps manage events as well as organising social activities for students.