Introduction to the MA in Ritual Chant and Song

The University of Limerick offers a Master of Arts (MA) in Ritual Chant and Song, a one-year, full-time programme that provides specialist training in Western plainchant and Irish traditional religious song (sean-nós). This programme is contextualised by a study of ritual theory, manuscript studies, and historical context, alongside opportunities to engage with other global ritual vocal traditions.

Programme Content

The MA in Ritual Chant and Song is designed to immerse students in the rich traditions of chant repertoires. The programme includes:

• Specialist vocal training in Gregorian plainchant and Irish sean-nós
• Exploration of ritual theory, manuscript studies, and historical context
• Engagement with other global ritual vocal traditions
• Development of a research foundation for the interdisciplinary study of music, performance, theology, and anthropology of ritual

Programme Structure

The programme is structured as follows:

Year 1

Autumn Semester

• Core modules:
  • Ritual Chant and Song Practicum 1 (MU5361)
  • Materials, Methods and Context for Western Chant 1 (MD6151)
  • Introduction to Fieldwork Techniques (MD6021)
  • Introduction to Ritual Studies (MD6041)
• Electives (choose 2):
  • Independent Study 1 (MD6051)
  • Introduction to Somatics 1 (MD6061)
  • Colloquium 1 (MD6111)
  • Academic Literacies for International Postgraduate Students 1 (AW6001)
  • Professional Development for the Performing Arts (MD6091)
  • Media Technologies for Performing Arts and Arts Research (MD6031)

Spring Semester

• Core modules:
  • Ritual Chant and Song Practicum 2 (MU5362)
  • Materials, Methods and Context for Western Chant 2 (MD6142)
  • Advanced Ritual Studies (MD6132)
• Electives (choose 2):
  • Independent Study 2 (MD6052)
  • Introduction to Somatics 2 (MD6092)
  • Colloquium 2 (MD6102)
  • Academic Literacies for International Postgraduate Students 2 (AW6012)
  • Critical Contexts for Arts Management and Cultural Policy (MD6062)
  • Interdisciplinary Practice (MD6162)

Summer Semester

• Final Presentation (MD5522)

Entry Requirements

• Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree (NFQ Level 8) with at least a second-class honour, grade 2 (2:2) in a relevant or appropriate subject.
• The university will shortlist and invite applicants to an interview.
• International students should refer to country-specific qualifications and English language requirements.

Fees

• EU: €7,995
• Non-EU: €18,000
• Annual fees are billed by semester, with options for a monthly payment plan.

Graduate Profile

Graduates of this programme have pursued diverse careers, including:

• Performance (singers, musicians, church music directors)
• Education (including schools, community settings, and tertiary institutions)
• Arts management and cultural policy
• Further doctoral research

Further Information

For more information on the programme, including module details and application procedures, please refer to the University of Limerick's website or contact the programme director.

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Degree Overview:

The MA in Ritual Chant and Song is a one-year, full-time program that specializes in chant and ritual vocal repertoires, contextualized by a program of study in ritual theory and liturgical history. The program focuses on Western plainchant and Irish traditional religious song, while also welcoming a variety of world ritual vocal repertoires. Vocal development is facilitated through one-to-one, weekly vocal classes, as well as master-classes with internationally renowned performers. The program is offered in association with the Benedictine community at Glenstal Abbey.

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Objectives:

• To provide specialized vocal training in ritual repertoires, particularly Western plainchant and Irish traditional religious song, contextualized by the study of liturgical history and ritual theory.
• To develop a research foundation for the interdisciplinary study of music, performance, theology, and anthropology of ritual.

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Outline:

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Semester 1

• MU5361 Ritual Chant and Song Practicum 1
• MD6151 Materials, Methods, and Context for Western Chant 1
• MD6021 Introduction to Fieldwork Techniques
• MD6041 Introduction to Ritual Studies

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Options:

Students can choose two options from the following list:

• MD6051 Independent Study 1
• MD6061 Introduction to Somatics 1
• MD6102 Colloquium 1
• MU6071 Beginners' Ecclesiastical Latin for the Study of Plainchant
• AS6001 Academic Literacies for International Postgraduate Students 1
• MD6091 Professional Development for the Performing Arts

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Semester 2

• MU5362 Ritual Chant and Song Practicum 2
• MD6142 Materials, Methods, and Context for Western Chant 2
• MD6132 Advanced Ritual Studies

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Options:

Students can choose two options from the following list:

• MD6052 Independent Study 2
• MD6092 Introduction to Somatics 2
• MD6111 Colloquium 2
• AW6012 Academic Literacies for International Postgraduate Students 2
• MD6062 Critical Contexts for Arts Management and Cultural Policy
• MD6162 Interdisciplinary Practice

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Semester 3

• MD5522 Final Presentation

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Careers:

One focus of the course is the development of performers, so many past students have gone on to develop careers as singers, musicians, and musical directors. However, students have used skills acquired through this MA in a number of other fields, including education (at primary, post-primary, secondary, and tertiary levels), technology, arts management, etc. A good number of graduates of this MA have also gone on to further doctoral study.

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Other:

The program is offered in association with the Benedictine community at Glenstal Abbey.

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EU - €7,270 Non- EU - €16,900

University of Limerick

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Overview:

University of Limerick (UL) is a public research university located in Limerick, Ireland. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research and innovation. UL is ranked among the top 3% of universities worldwide and is a leading institution in Ireland for its contributions to research, teaching, and community engagement.

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Services Offered:

UL offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Library:

The Glucksman Library provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.

Student Gateway:

This online portal provides access to student information, course materials, and other important resources.

Accommodation:

On-campus accommodation options are available for students, with a variety of choices to suit different needs and budgets.

Cafés and Restaurants:

The campus has a variety of dining options, including cafes, restaurants, and a student-run Coop.

Sports Facilities:

UL Sport offers a wide range of sports facilities and activities for students, including a state-of-the-art sports arena.

Student Support Services:

The university provides a range of support services to students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UL offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience, with a strong emphasis on student engagement and community involvement. Students can participate in a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, both on and off campus. The university also has a strong focus on sustainability and social responsibility, with initiatives aimed at promoting environmental awareness and community engagement.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, with a focus on research and innovation.

Vibrant Campus Life:

The university provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience, with a wide range of opportunities for students to get involved in extracurricular activities and social events.

Research Excellence:

UL is a leading research institution in Ireland, with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration.

International Focus:

The university has a strong international focus, with a diverse student body and a commitment to global engagement.

Location:

UL is located in Limerick, a vibrant city with a rich history and culture.

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Academic Programs:

UL offers a wide range of academic programs across seven faculties:

Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as history, law, modern languages, politics, English, Irish, and sociology.

Education and Health Sciences:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as physical education, psychology, medicine, education, nursing, and allied health.

Kemmy Business School:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as accounting, finance, economics, management, and marketing.

Science and Engineering:

This faculty offers programs in areas such as computer science, electronic engineering, mathematics, statistics, design, and engineering.

Irish World Academy of Music and Dance:

This academy offers programs in traditional Irish music and dance.

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Other: