Music

The Bachelor of Music degree prepares students for a musical career at a professional standard. Important components in the program are the development of performance and creative skills, collaboration with other musicians and creative artists, and the use of up to date technologies. As well as offering a wide variety of performance experiences within the program, students have many opportunities to work and perform in the community and region.

The degree is conducted over three years of full-time study or part-time equivalent. It aims to develop musical skills by providing every opportunity to develop individual creativity while receiving high quality training in music. Students can receive individual and group tuition in the area of their principal study and have the opportunity to study a variety of electives. Students can specialise in performance (instrumental/voice), composition, creative music production (technology), musicology, or may combine these areas into a double major.

There are many opportunities to perform in and create for a diverse array of ensembles and bands such as jazz, pop and world music, symphonic and wind orchestras, chamber and large choirs, small, medium and hybrid groups. These ensembles normally rehearse weekly during semester time and often perform in the Conservatorium Concert Hall as well as at local, national and occasionally international venues.

We also believe improvisation, creativity working with technology are important musicianship skills for today's musicians. Digital ensembles such as creating and performing with MIDI controlled devices or a laptop orchestra are also on offer. Music production skills are crucial to the modern musician, and all students have the opportunity to develop skills in this area. The Creative Music Production facility at the University of Newcastle Conservatorium boasts state of the art music technology facilities.

As well all course based music activities the Conservatorium provides many extra curricula activities. These can range from performing medieval and renaissance music to exploring the relationship between the composer and performer in the 21st century. In 2012 the Conservatorium hosted the inaugural International Space Time Concerto Competition - a competition with a difference as performers in five global locations simultaneously created one extraordinary event live in real time.