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