MA Community Music

Program Overview

---

The MA Community Music program equips students with the skills and knowledge to lead inclusive music-making initiatives in diverse social contexts. The curriculum focuses on utilizing music in education, health, and welfare settings, while providing research skills and critical thinking abilities relevant to community music practice. Graduates pursue careers in arts administration, education, research, and music therapy, among others.

Program Outline

---

MA Community Music

---

Degree Overview

The MA in Community Music program aims to equip you with the skills and knowledge to lead inclusive and collaborative music-making initiatives in diverse social contexts. The curriculum focuses on utilizing music in education, health, and welfare settings while providing you with research skills and critical thinking abilities relevant to community music practice.

---

Program Objectives:

• Develop expertise in facilitating and leading community music projects.
• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the role of music in education, health, and social welfare.
• Acquire research skills to analyze and evaluate community music initiatives.
• Enhance critical thinking and communication abilities.
• Build a portfolio career in music-related fields, including arts administration, education, and research.

---

Program Description:

This intensive one-year program offers a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical and practical learning. Students will engage in:

• Module-based coursework: Covering core topics such as community music principles, groupwork, arts administration, history, and specializations in various music contexts.
• Independent research project: Conducting in-depth research on a chosen topic related to community music.
• Practical opportunities: Participating in local music projects and collaborating with regional partners to gain hands-on experience.
• Enrichment activities: Attending weekly research seminars, musical ensembles, and performance classes to enhance their skills and knowledge.

---

Outline

---

Program Content:

The MA Community Music curriculum comprises modules, seminars, and an independent study project.

• Core Modules:
• Community Music in Principle
• Facilitation Skills: Theory and Practice
• Groupwork, Arts Administration, and Project Management
• History, Practice and Study of Community Music
• Specialisms and Contexts
• Option Module (choose one):
• Leadership and Management in Music Education
• Music and Human Flourishing
• Independent Study Module (Research Project): Selecting a research topic relevant to your interests and conducting in-depth analysis and fieldwork.

---

Course Schedule:

The course typically follows a semester structure with core modules and option modules offered in different semesters. The specific schedule is updated and confirmed each year.

---

Individual Modules:

---

Community Music in Principle: Provides an overview of the philosophy, principles, and methodologies of community music practice.

---

Facilitation Skills: Theory and Practice: Develops effective communication, group management, and leadership skills for facilitating diverse musical activities.

---

Groupwork, Arts Administration, and Project Management: Acquires knowledge and skills for managing community music projects, including group dynamics, budget planning, and funding applications.

---

History, Practice and Study of Community Music: Explores the historical development, current practices, and research methods in community music globally.

---

Specialisms and Contexts: Deep dives into specific areas of community music, such as music in education, health, social care, or criminal justice.

---

Independent Study Module (Research Project): Conduct an independent research project on a topic of your choice related to community music, requiring in-depth analysis and fieldwork.

---

Leading and Management in Music Education: Develops leadership and management skills specific to music education settings, covering curriculum design, assessment strategies, and professional development opportunities.

---

Music and Human Flourishing: Examines the relationship between music and wellbeing, exploring the use of music in therapeutic settings and its impact on individual and community development.

---

Assessment

---

Assessment Methods:

• Essays: Demonstrating critical analysis, research skills, and written communication abilities.
• Evaluations and Reports: Applying theoretical concepts to practical situations and evaluating project outcomes.
• Project and Lesson Plans: Creating comprehensive plans for community music projects and educational activities.
• Business Plans and Funding Applications: Developing practical proposals for funding and managing community music initiatives.
• Policy Statements and Risk Assessments: Engaging with ethical considerations, safety protocols, and policy development for community music projects.
• Dissertation or Practice-Based Project: Conducting an independent research project and producing a comprehensive written analysis or a practice-based project with a critical commentary.

---

Assessment Criteria:

• Depth of knowledge and understanding of community music principles and practices.
• Critical thinking and analytical abilities.
• Research and writing skills.
• Project planning and management.
• Communication and presentation skills.
• Creativity and innovation in music making and design.

---

Teaching

---

Teaching Methods:

• Interactive lectures and seminars.
• Individual tutorials and supervision for research projects.
• Group work and collaborative learning activities.
• Guest lectures from experts in community music.
• Practical workshops and field visits to community music organizations.

---

Faculty:

• World-leading academics: Recognized experts in community music research and practice.
• Experienced practitioners: Professionals actively engaged in community music projects.
• Visiting faculty: Internationally renowned scholars and artists contributing diverse perspectives.

---

Unique Approach:

• The program emphasizes a holistic approach to community music, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience.
• Students are encouraged to engage with local communities and participate in real-world projects to gain valuable insights.
• The program fosters an inclusive learning environment that celebrates diversity and encourages collaborative learning.

---

Careers

---

Career Opportunities:

• Community Outreach Officer: Working in universities or arts institutions to develop and manage community music programs.
• Participation Producer: Leading audience engagement initiatives and facilitating music-making opportunities at cultural venues.
• Education Manager: Overseeing music education initiatives in schools or music organizations, developing curriculum and teaching resources.
• Arts Development Officer: Working in government agencies or local authorities to promote arts participation and develop cultural programs.
• Music Therapist: Providing music-based interventions for individuals with various needs, including those with physical or mental health conditions.
• Academic Researcher: Conducting research in the field of community music, pursuing doctoral studies, or teaching in higher education institutions.

---

Other

---

Additional Program Features:

• The program collaborates with local and national organizations to provide students with practical opportunities and networking connections.
• Students have access to a range of facilities, including the Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall, practice rooms, and recording studios.
• The program emphasizes employability skills development through workshops and career guidance.
• Students benefit from a supportive learning environment with individualized attention and mentor

---

Tuition Fees and Payment Information:

Annual tuition fees for 2024/25 Study modeUK (home)International and EU Full-time (1 year) £10,590£23,900 Part-time (2 years)This is the year 1 fee. Fees for future years are subject to confirmation. £5,295£11,950 Part-time (3 years)This is the year 1 fee. Fees for future years are subject to confirmation. £3,530£7,967 Students on a Student Visa are not currently permitted to study part-time at York. For courses which are longer than one year, the tuition fees quoted are for the first year of study. UK (home) fees may increase in subsequent years (up to a maximum of 2%). International fees may increase in subsequent years in line with the prevailing Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation rate (up to a maximum of 10%).