Programme description for Master's Programme in Popular Music (2024–2027)

It is facilitated for exchange in the 3rd semester.

What do you learn?

Learning outcome

Upon completion of the programme, students will:

KNOWLEDGE

• be able to explain scientific theory and methodological issues associated with popular musicological research

• have acquired advanced knowledge about the discipline of popular music and a broad understanding of the chosen specialisation

• have acquired thorough knowledge of the music business

• be able to analyse relevant and innovative research questions with their bases in history, tradition and the distinctive character of their chosen specialisation

• have acquired knowledge regarding the project as a working method

SKILLS

• be able to analyse existing theories, methods and interpretations of music, and to work independently with practical and theoretical issues

• have advanced skills in the discipline of performance practice and specialist insight into their principle instrument

• be able to independently apply relevant theory and models to plan and carry out projects linked to music and the stage

GENERAL COMPETENCE

• be able to apply their knowledge and skills in the academic discipline of music, and undertake advanced assignments and projects

• be able to contribute to innovation and innovative processes in the discipline of music

• be able to communicate their own work and use academic terminology correctly

Structure and content

Admission requirements

The general admission requirement is a bachelor's degree or equivalent education of at least three years' duration (180 credits) for all specializations in the master's program. Applicants who lack up to 15 credits outside the specialization unit may be conditionally admitted. Admission is subject to the regulations for admission to studies and courses at the University of Agder.

 

Performing Specializations: (Performing Music, World Music, and Songwriting).

The admission basis shall include a passed specialization unit of at least 80 credits in performing music or equivalent.

 

Applicants submit an application with a proposed project description for the master's thesis according to guidelines set by the Faculty of Fine Arts. The master's thesis proposal must be approved by the university 5 weeks before the audition is held.

 

Applicants are ranked based on the audition, which consists of the following components:

 

1. Audition: During the audition, a score from 10 to 20 is given for a passed test. Applicants who receive less than 10 points have not passed. The audition counts for 50% of the total score. The audition considers the applicant's artistic, technical, and academic levels in terms of performance and presentation.

 

2. Interview: During the interview, a score from 10 to 20 is given. The interview counts for 50% of the total score. The audition must be passed to gain admission to the interview. The interview considers the applicant's ability to describe, reflect on, and communicate the background and motivation for the chosen artistic project, specialization and thesis proposal.

 

Electronic Music

The admission basis shall include one of the following criteria:

• Specialization unit of at least 80 credits in performing or electronic music, a bachelor's degree in music technology, or equivalent.

• Other relevant bachelor's programs may be approved as a basis for admission upon special consideration.

 

Applicants submit an application with a proposed project description for the master's thesis according to guidelines set by the Faculty of Fine Arts. The master's thesis proposal must be approved by the university 5 weeks before the audition test is held.

 

Applicants are ranked based on the audition, which consists of the following components:

 

1. Audition: During the audition, a score from 10 to 20 is given for a passed test. Applicants who receive less than 10 points have not passed. The audition counts for 50% of the total score. The audition considers the applicant's artistic, technical, and academic levels in terms of performance and presentation.

 

2. Interview: During the interview, a score from 10 to 20 is given. The interview counts for 50% of the total score. The audition must be passed to gain admission to the interview. The interview considers the applicant's ability to describe, reflect on, and communicate the background and motivation for the chosen artistic project, specialization and thesis proposal.

 

Theoretical Specialization:

(Music Business and Management)

 

The admission basis shall include one of the following criteria:

 

• Specialization unit of at least 80 credits in performing music, music education, or musicology.

 

• Relevant specialization unit of at least 80 credits within cultural/music/cultural studies.

 

• Bachelor's degree in economics or equivalent.

 

• Other relevant bachelor's programs may be approved as a basis for admission upon special consideration.

 

A weighted average grade of C or better is required, calculated based on the entire bachelor's degree.

Recommended previous knowledge

MUR107/MUK107 Science Theory, Aesthetics, and Analysis at UiA, or equivalent.

General description and profile

The master's program in Popular music aims to provide students with broad musical competence, making them well-equipped to meet a fragmented music industry in constant flux. The term “rhythmic music”, a Scandinavian interpretation of the broad concept of "Popular Music," refers to the musical performance of genres such as pop, rock, folk, jazz, and other styles traditionally encompassed by the term. Internationally, "Popular Music" studies also include other disciplines in addition to performance and production, such as the music industry (rights, consumption, law, etc.) and aesthetics (criticism, commercialization, authenticity, etc.).

Digitalization and industry restructuring in recent years have changed the landscape for the traditional musician, and the master's program in Popular Music aims to provide students with a clearly defined but also broad and holistic approach to the discipline of Popular Music. We emphasize performance but also provide students with insight into and competence within various parts of the music industry and cultural industry at large.

In the master's program in Popular Music, students apply for admission to one of five different specializations, the first four of which are performing: Performing Rhythmic Music, Electronic Music, World Music, Songwriting, or Music Business and Management.

Through the chosen specialization, the student shall develop a competence and profile within performing music, musicology or a combination of these, aimed at specific areas and work situations.

Students in the master's program in Popular Music can participate in the faculty's various research groups.

 

About the Specializations:

1.The specialization in Performing Music focuses on personal expression and musical identity, aiming to develop artistic and technical skills to prepare students as music performers at an advanced and professional level.

 

2.The specialization in Electronic Music has a performing profile where students are guided to discover and realize their artistic ideas through and by using music technology. Emphasis is placed on developing students' personal and aesthetic awareness through artistic creation, performance practice, and critical reflection. The curriculum includes subjects such as sound design, composition, programming, and production of electronic music.

 

3.World Music is a performing specialization where instrumentalists/vocalists explore their own traditional music and connect it with music from other parts of the world. This specialization is designed for performing musicians and music educators who aim to build bridges across borders and cultures, expanding their stylistic repertoire.

 

4. The Songwriting specialization emphasizes the further development of students' own artistic expression. Through critical reflection, sharing, and feedback on work-in-progress, various methods and approaches to the textual, musical, and performative aspects of creative practices in songwriting are explored.

Across the performing specializations, there is a theoretical component where students acquire knowledge of various research methods and directions in popular music studies, learning to relate this to practical music performance. This provides a solid foundation for musical innovation and reflection on one's own musical practice.

5.The Music Business and Management specialization is designed for those interested in working with idea development and entrepreneurship within the national and international music industry. The specialization incorporates elements from multiple disciplines including entrepreneurship, marketing, music, management, and copyright. Students gain solid insight into the current music industry landscape, nationally and internationally, with a particular focus on emerging markets, new revenue streams, new technologies, and copyright issues.

The Master's thesis (30 credits) is a central part of the program and should constitute an independent scientific work / artistic research project within the chosen specialization.

Teaching methods

The program incorporates various teaching and learning methods tailored to individual student needs. Instruction includes individual guidance, seminars, and lectures. For students in the performing specializations, interpretation and ensemble performance are also integral components. Regardless of specialization, all students have opportunities to participate in projects with relevant stakeholders and collaborators. Participation in planning and conducting concert activities under university auspices is mandatory for all students. Individual guidance is offered for written assignments, with sessions conducted either entirely online or on campus, tailored to individual student needs. A significant part of the work time for students in the performing specializations is dedicated to artistic practice, including individual creative practice, rehearsals, music production and performance, both solo and in ensembles. The digital learning platform Canvas serves as the primary communication channel for the program. Certain parts of the instruction are compulsory. Please refer to the descriptions provided for each individual course for details.

Assessment methods

Various assessment methods are employed to ensure coherence with the learning outcomes of different courses, teaching and learning methods, and to maintain overall program quality. Theoretical courses are assessed through oral and/or written examinations, while practical courses are assessed through evaluation of ensemble performance, studio recordings, concerts, and practical exams. Please refer to the descriptions provided for each individual course for details.

Internationalization

The field of popular music is internationally oriented, with creative and performance impulses constantly evolving across national boundaries. The Department of Rhythmic Music is affiliated with international networks and has exchange agreements with several prominent European music institutions. Throughout the program, master's students will encounter foreign guest lecturers through master classes, workshops, lectures, and projects. Partner institutions are selected to ensure that students receive input from key international academic communities through teacher exchange programs. Master classes, workshops, and lectures with foreign guest lecturers complement regular instruction and enhance the learning outcomes for master's students. The program curriculum relies on international literature, incorporating global perspectives within the music field.

The Faculty of Fine Arts is engaged internationally through programs such as NORDPLUS and Erasmus+, facilitating student exchange opportunities during the third semester for all specializations. Incoming exchange students can access all first-year courses as well as Music Business III and New Technologies in the third semester, all offered in English. When establishing exchange agreements, emphasis is placed on ensuring that the expertise of the partner institution's faculty complements the student's instrumental/professional background from their home institution. Please refer to the UiA website for information on exchange opportunities during the program: link

Language of Instruction

The performing specializations (Performing Music, Electronic Music, World Music, Songwriting) can be completed in English. The theoretical specialization, Music Business and Management, is offered exclusively in English.

Requirements for continuing in programme

To proceed to the second year of the program, ME-426 Music Scientific Theory and Methodology (15 credits) must be successfully completed.

For students in the performing specializations (Performing Music, Electronic Music, World Music, Songwriting), passing MUR402 Individual Performance and Interpretation I (15 credits) and MUR403 Individual Performance and Interpretation II (15 credits) is also required to advance to the second year.

Occupational profiles / further studies

The performing specializations qualify graduates for creative and performing roles within the arts and culture sector, as well as specialized careers within the music field. Upon completion of the program, graduates have acquired competencies that enable them to establish their own music venture. For students in the performing specializations, the program can be part of a pathway to teaching qualifications, along with Practical Pedagogical Education (PPU), leading to employment as music teachers in cultural schools, primary and secondary schools, folk high schools, colleges, and universities. The Music Business and Management specialization provides relevant expertise for work in music organizations and businesses, media companies, record labels, and rights organizations, both nationally and internationally. Completing the master's program may qualify graduates to pursue doctoral studies, for example, at the Faculty of Fine Arts, UiA.

 

Qualification awarded

The program leads to the degree of Master in Popular Music.

Evaluation

Student evaluation is conducted annually through study councils in accordance with the quality system, Chapter 4.2.

Fee

There are no fees for mandatory study trips, courses, or excursions for students. Optional study trips may incur expenses for students. Alternative activities will be arranged for those unable to participate, which, similar to study trips, will enhance student learning outcomes.

Contact person

Program coordinator Per Elias Drabløs. e-mail: per.e.drablos@uia.no. Phone: +47 38141920

Other information

It is a requirement that all students at UiA have their own portable computer (laptop) for use in teaching and examinations, see Examination Regulations, University of Agder, §12d