| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-25 | - |
| 2023-08-28 | 2023-07-15 |
| 2024-01-20 | 2023-12-15 |
Program Overview
Course overview
The Classical Music Industry MA is a programme designed with your career prospects in mind. You will gain real-world experience in the music industry, with a substantial placement working for one of the largest arts employers in the North West, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic.
Introduction
As a result of the unique placement opportunity we offer, you will graduate from this master’s programme with enhanced employment prospects. These prospects will be enriched not just by exposure to the best minds of an historic and thriving institution but by the support we give you to complete a dissertation in your chosen specialist field.
You’ll work closely with some of the best minds of an historic and thriving institution, gaining invaluable knowledge around not only the classical music industry, but arts management, heritage management and other roles in the public sector.
As well as our partnership with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, you will have access to our internal performance facilities including the Tung Auditorium.
The University’s Department of Music has a long history in music industry studies and our staff will be able to give you the detailed academic support you require to realise a substantial study that helps demonstrate your newly developed expertise to prospective employers. Your CV will be improved and your skill levels will be raised in substantial and rewarding ways.
What you'll learn
Program Outline
Compulsory modules
MANAGING CLASSICAL MUSIC (MUSI541)
Credits: 30 / Semester: semester 1
This module introduces students to every aspect of managing a symphony orchestra and its associated venue. Students will benefit from guest speakers drawn from the managerial staff of the Liverpool Philharmonic.
STUDYING MUSIC INDUSTRY (MUSI510)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1
The module examines some of the interdisciplinary approaches to the study of the music industries and explores these contributions. Drawing on examples it examines, in a practical way, how research in the field is conducted. Students learn how to plan and develop a research project in preparation for their dissertation. Students will develop their understanding through lectures, online class discussions and tutorials. Successful students on this module will develop skills in research appropriate for the study of the music industries at postgraduate level, including bibliographic skills and the ability to find and evaluate various kinds of evidence.
AUDIENCES (MUSI540)
Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1
This module will cover methodologies and practices for identifying audiences for live music performances and explore how to apply strategies and tactics for managing and marketing live music events and/or venues.
Careers and employability
The MA is very much industry-focused. Members of staff for the most part have wide-ranging music industry experience and are able to draw on this in the preparation of classes. Familiarity with local and national practitioners means that classes are current and highly-informed. Where possible, guest speakers are brought in to illustrate aspects of music industry practice.
All this noted, the MA is still an academic degree in a Russell Group university and staff academic standards are equally high. All members of staff hold PhD qualifications in relevant disciplines and all are experienced PhD supervisors. Every year, a small number of graduates indicate that they would like to carry on their studies at PhD level and we see ‘employability’ as preparation either for industry or for academia and support students, whatever their proposed career paths might be.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
Career planning
Our Careers Studio and career coaches can provide tailored support for your future plans.
From education to employment
Employability in your curriculum for a successful transition
Networking events
Make meaningful connections with like-minded professionals
Career planning
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
Meet our Career Coaches
From education to employment
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
Employability programmes
Networking events
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Careers events
Your future
Graduates from this programme have pursued careers in a wide range of areas within the music industry including:
Working in the UK after graduation
The UK is a great place to live and work, so it's no surprise that many international students want to stay after they graduate. A graduate visa lets you stay in the UK for up-to two years after graduation. It's available to students in the UK on a student visa (or Tier 4 [General] student visa). Our careers service is here to support you getting work once you finish studying.