MSc in Contemporary Music Practices
A practice-based master’s programme blending composition, performance, and research in a vibrant creative community.
Best for:Best for musicians with a bachelor’s degree in music or related fields, seeking to specialise in composition or performance while engaging in research and collaborative creative projects.
Overview
This master’s programme at Maynooth University offers a dynamic blend of theoretical and practical training in contemporary music. Students develop specialised skills in composition or performance while engaging in practice-based research. The curriculum fosters collaboration through interactions with visiting artists, composers, and performers, creating an immersive environment for independent scholarship. Ideal for musicians seeking to refine their craft and explore interdisciplinary creative practices, the programme supports both artistic development and academic inquiry. Graduates emerge with a strong portfolio and research foundation for further study or professional careers in music.
What you'll do
- Develop and refine specialised skills in either composition or performance through hands-on practice and mentorship.
- Engage in practice-based research to explore innovative approaches to contemporary music creation and interpretation.
- Collaborate with visiting artists, composers, and performers to enrich academic and creative experiences.
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and performances to foster interdisciplinary and cross-cultural artistic dialogue.
- Create and present a portfolio of original work or performances as part of the programme’s assessment requirements.
- Contribute to the vibrant research culture by interacting with peers, faculty, and external creative professionals.
Requirements
Degree required: A bachelor’s honours degree (NFQ Level 8 or equivalent) with at least a second-class honours, grade 2 (2:2), in any discipline, with a minimum of a grade 1 (2:1) in a composition or performance specialism OR equivalent skills demonstrated through an audition or portfolio.
Degree offered: MSc in Contemporary Music Practices
Language: English proficiency (assumed for applicants with a degree taught in English; additional evidence may be required if not).
Instruction: English
- Proven skills in composition or performance, demonstrated through academic transcripts or an audition/portfolio.
- Ability to engage in independent research and creative practice.
- Commitment to collaborative and interdisciplinary artistic work.
- Applicants without a music-related degree may apply via an audition (portfolio submission) or through Maynooth University’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process for non-standard entrants with at least 3 years of relevant experience.
- No nationality or residency restrictions.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
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- Intake
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- Duration
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- Taught / research mode
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Deadline: 2026-08-14
Applicants must submit their application through Maynooth University’s postgraduate application portal. Required documents include academic transcripts, a CV, a statement of purpose, and either a portfolio of musical work or audition materials for non-standard entrants. Additional evidence of composition or performance skills may be requested.
- CV
- Statement of Purpose
- Academic Transcripts (Bachelor’s Degree)
- Portfolio of Musical Work or Audition Materials (for non-standard entrants)
- Proof of English Proficiency (if applicable)
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.