Composition and Sonic Art
Bangor , United Kingdom
Master of Music in Composition and Sonic Art
Prifysgol Bangor University
Composition and Sonic Art
Program Overview: MMus Composition and Sonic Art
The MMus in Composition and Sonic Art at Bangor University enables you to develop high-level skills in a compositional field of your choice. You will learn to place your own artistic practice in a broader creative and intellectual context while honing transferable skills in critical thinking, problem solving, analysis, communication, and originality.
Specialism is offered in a variety of genres, including writing for instruments and voices, electroacoustic and acousmatic composition, composing for live musicians with electronics, popular song composition, and composing for film, television and other media. You will work closely with award-winning professional composers and established researchers with international profiles.
Bangor University enjoys close links with prestigious industry partners such as the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Sinfonia Cymru, Welsh National Opera, Opra Cymru, and Aria Film Studios. The programme is an ideal preparation for further creative work at PhD level and beyond, equipping you with skills valued by employers within and outside the music field.
Key Program Highlights
- A flexible programme allowing you to explore your own areas of interest within composition and sonic art across multiple genres and styles.
- Expert tuition from renowned academics and practitioners in the fields of music composition and sonic art with international profiles.
- Excellent facilities including four digital music studios with surround-sound capability for music production, recording, film music composition, and experimental sonic art.
- Strong industry connections with partners such as BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Welsh National Opera, Sinfonia Cymru, and Pontio Arts Centre.
Curriculum and Modules
The MMus in Composition and Sonic Art is divided into two parts: the Taught Study element delivered across two semesters, and the Master's Project completed over the summer. Teaching is provided through a combination of individual tuition and small-group seminars, allowing for personalised creative development.
Composition Project 1
30 creditsA supervised composition project in your chosen style and medium during Semester 1, forming a core focus of your compositional practice and creative development.
Composition Project 2
30 creditsA second supervised composition project in Semester 2 that builds upon your first project, further developing your compositional voice and technical command.
Composition in Context
30 creditsPlaces your creative practice in the context of contemporary composition across a range of genres and styles, drawing technical, theoretical, aesthetic and philosophical insights from established composers.
Music and Ideas
20 creditsExplores a case study chosen from options growing out of staff specialisms, alongside a series of public research seminars delivered by staff and external speakers.
Investigating Music
20 creditsBrings together students following musicology, composition, and performance programmes to explore a range of contemporary issues from different and inter-related perspectives.
Master's Project
60 creditsA substantial original composition or coherent portfolio of works (approximately 30 minutes) accompanied by a contextual commentary of 2,000 words documenting your creative practice.
Specialisation Areas
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MMus in Composition and Sonic Art is competitive and based on academic achievement and creative portfolio. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, where our advisors can guide you through every step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA first degree at 2:ii standard or higher (or equivalent) is required.
- Portfolio RequirementCandidates with a 2:ii must achieve a 2:i in a substantial project in their chosen area (e.g. a portfolio of compositions).
- Creative Work SamplesApplicants may be asked to submit 2-3 representative samples of their creative work (notated scores, audio recordings, or both).
- Relevant BackgroundA background in music composition, sonic art, or a closely related creative discipline is expected.
- ReferencesAcademic references supporting your application and demonstrating your potential for postgraduate-level study in composition.
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.0 with no element below 5.5
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for accepted equivalent scores
- Other TestsEquivalent qualifications accepted; contact Uni4Edu for details on country-specific requirements
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Bangor University and external bodies offer a range of funding opportunities for postgraduate students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for scholarships that match your profile and eligibility.
GREAT Scholarship
GBP 10,000Available for international students from eligible countries pursuing any taught master's programme at Bangor University. Contact Uni4Edu for current eligibility criteria and application details.
Inclusive Bangor Scholarship
Up to GBP 9,500Supports graduating students continuing their studies at Bangor at master's level, particularly in areas with underrepresentation. Payment is applied towards tuition fees for one year (or two years part-time).
International Excellence Scholarship
Up to GBP 5,000Merit-based award for international postgraduate students demonstrating outstanding academic achievement. Contact Uni4Edu for the latest availability and application process.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The MMus in Composition and Sonic Art equips you with creative expertise and transferable professional skills highly valued across the music industry and beyond. Recent graduates have pursued successful careers in a wide range of roles spanning the creative and cultural sectors.
Potential Career Roles
Industry Partners and Potential Employers
Rankings and Recognition
Bangor University is a well-established institution founded in 1884, consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK and recognised internationally for its research excellence and student satisfaction.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Music Research Output | REF | 81% rated World-Leading or Internationally Excellent |
| Agriculture and Forestry | QS Subject Rankings | Top 150 |
| Psychology | QS Subject Rankings | Top 350 |
| Environmental Sciences | QS Subject Rankings | Top 350 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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