School of Music ranks amongst highest in UK

Cardiff University School of Music has been ranked 8th in the UK for music in the most recent independent UK-wide rankings of research quality.

The Research Excellence Framework (REF) assesses and demonstrates the value and impact of research carried out at UK higher education institutions. Our reputation for international research was recognised and the School now ranks among the top ten music departments in the UK for research excellence.

Staff members currently conduct research on a great variety of musical subjects that include: the music of war, music in Vienna, music on stage and music and the sublime. They are examining musical issues in a wide variety of periods (notably the eighteenth century and the twentieth century) and in a wide range of contexts (such as Western Europe, the Middle East and West Africa).

The REF also assesses research impact, defined for this purpose as an effect on, change or benefit to the economy, society, culture, public policy, health, the environment or quality of life, beyond academia. The School has performed very well in this area with impact case studies highlighting direct influence on creative practice.

Professor Kenneth Hamilton, Head of School, said: "I am truly delighted with the School's superb REF results. Our internationally-recognised research expertise, the investment we have made in our research environment, and our extensive contribution to the cultural and intellectual life of a capital city has resulted in a significant rise in our rankings.

"This is naturally a collective effort and I thank all members of the School for their dedication and inspiring academics and artistic achievements."

• Read more about Cardiff's submission to the Music, Drama, Dance and Performing Arts Unit of Assessment
• Research at the School of Music
• Postgraduate research at the School of Music