Introduction to the MA in Irish Traditional Music

The MA in Irish Traditional Music is a postgraduate program offered by University College Cork (UCC). This program provides a holistic practical and theoretical immersion in Irish Traditional Music practice and scholarship.

Course Outline

The MA in Irish Traditional Music draws on wide-ranging internationally-recognized expertise to offer a progressively flexible postgraduate pathway in Irish Traditional Music. The program combines core studies with an impressively broad range of elective modules that can be tailored to suit students' interests.

Core Modules

• MU6004 Performance Practice (15 credits)
• MU6050 Performance Studies (10 credits)
• MU6030 Research Skills (5 credits)
• MU6051 Multidisciplinary Explorations of Irish Traditional Music (10 credits)
• MU6052 Self-directed Irish Traditional Music Performance Practice (5 credits)

Elective Modules

Students can choose from a variety of elective modules, including:

• MU6054 Composing Irish Traditional Music (5 credits)
• MU6055 The Harmonic Language of Irish Traditional Music (5 credits)
• MU6056 Professional Development in the Traditional Arts Sector (5 credits)
• MU6057 Traditional Arts Internship (5 credits)
• MU6058 Collectors, Collections, and Fieldwork in Irish Traditional Music (5 credits)
• Other modules from related fields, subject to approval.

Course Practicalities

The MA in Irish Traditional Music may be taken full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months. All teaching is delivered in lectures, small group seminars, ensemble classes, and tutorials, as well as one-on-one lessons and supervision.

Assessment

Assessment is based on continuous assessment methods, including coursework, performances, and research papers.

Why Choose This Course

This program integrates creative practice and academic research, offering students a unique opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge in Irish Traditional Music. The Department of Music at UCC has a long-standing reputation for excellence in the study and practice of Irish Traditional Music.

Requirements

Applicants must have a Second Class Honours Grade 2 in a primary honors degree (NFQ, Level 8) in music or a related subject. Consideration under Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) may also be given to applicants with relevant professional experience.

Fees and Costs

The EU fee for this course is Full-time: 8,100 Part-time: 4,700. The Non-EU fee is 18,500.

How to Apply

Applications are made online through the UCC application portal. Eligible applicants will be interviewed and required to submit a portfolio of creative works, recordings, and/or research.

Additional Requirements

All applicants must provide a portfolio and may be required to participate in an interview. International applicants must meet the university's English language requirements.

Similar Courses

Related postgraduate courses offered by UCC include the MA in Music & Cultural History and the MA in Experimental Sound Practice.

Conclusion

The MA in Irish Traditional Music at UCC offers a comprehensive and flexible program for those interested in advancing their knowledge and skills in this field. With its strong focus on both practical and theoretical aspects, this program is ideal for musicians, scholars, and enthusiasts alike.

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Degree Overview:

Our MA in Irish Traditional Music provides a holistic practical and theoretical immersion in Irish Traditional Music practice and scholarship. The programme draws on wide-ranging internationally-recognised expertise to offer a progressively flexible postgraduate pathway in Irish Traditional Music. On this programme you will combine core studies with an impressively broad range of elective modules that can be tailored to suit your interests. In addition, you will have the opportunity to develop your creative practice through masterclasses with department staff and external visiting tutors, as well as undertake original scholarship informed by disciplines such as ethnomusicology, musicology, and artistic research. Our Traditional Arts Internship module provides opportunities to gain professional experience working with relevant traditional arts organisations, while a Professional Development studies module equips you with the skillsets required to navigate sustainable careers as a music professional. Situated in a Music Department that has pioneered the study and practice of Irish Traditional Music for over a century, the programme also draws on departmental expertise in a uniquely wide range of music traditions and research areas.

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Outline:

The MA consists of 90 credits as follows:

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Part I

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Core Modules (45 credits)

MU6004 Performance Practice (15 credits) MU6050 Performance Studies (10 credits) MU6030 Research Skills (5 credits) MU6051 Multidisciplinary Explorations of Irish Traditional Music (10 credits) MU6052 Self-directed Irish Traditional Music Performance Practice (5 credits)

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Elective Modules (15 credits)

Choose 3 elective modules from the following options: MU6054 Composing Irish Traditional Music (5 credits) MU6055 The Harmonic Language of Irish Traditional Music (5 credits) MU6056 Professional Development in the Traditional Arts Sector (5 credits) MU6057 Traditional Arts Internship (5 credits) MU6058 Collectors, Collections, and Fieldwork in Irish Traditional Music (5 credits) MU2021 Foundations of Music Technology (5 credits) MU2089 Studio Production Techniques (5 credits) MU2112 Music Education (5 credits) DR6052 Arts Project Management (5 credits) MU2087 Loop, Repetition, and Variation in Music (5 credits) MU6034 Multidisciplinary Debates in Musicology and Ethnomusicology (5 credits) MU6104 Composing with Field Recordings (5 credits) MU6047 Music Cognition and Perception in Culture (5 credits) MU6031 Sound Studies and Musicology (5 credits) Or 5 credits (to be approved by the programme coordinator and relevant module coordinator) in a relevant/related field selected from another UCC MA programme where the student meets the entrance requirements.

• Students may not take elective modules which they have previously passed at the undergraduate level.

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Part II

MU6053 Research/Creative Practice Project in Irish Traditional Music (30 credits)

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Postgraduate Diploma in Irish Traditional Music (NFQ Level 9, Major Award)

Students who pass at least 60 credits of taught modules may elect to exit the programme and be awarded a Postgraduate Diploma in Irish Traditional Music.

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Assessment:

All assessment is based on continuous assessment methods. You are assessed on coursework submitted, including essays, research papers, presentations, music performances and/or recordings, coursework portfolios, and attendance and contribution to class discussions.

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Teaching:

The MA in Irish Traditional Music may be taken full-time over 12 months or part-time over 24 months from the date of first registration for the programme. All teaching is delivered in lectures, small group seminars, ensemble classes, and tutorials, and in one-on-one lessons and supervision. Students can expect eight to twelve hours of class contact time each week, depending on the ensembles studied, concerts presented, and frequency of supervision meetings.

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Part-time Option

The part-time option will be taught during weekday working hours over two years. The course structure for part-time students is subject to agreement with the Department of Music. Dr Jack Talty (Programme Coordinator) Mary Mitchell-Ingoldsby Dr Michelle Finnerty

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Careers:

Postgraduate students join a thriving research culture in our Department, in the diverse artistic and cultural hub that is Cork city. Focusing on a combination of academic, creative practice, and transferrable professional skills allows students to develop unique and distinctive profiles that can contribute meaningfully to multiple national and international communities of practice engaged in Irish Traditional Music. Our MA in Irish Traditional Music graduates pursue a wide range of careers in the creative arts, academia, culture industries, and media. Many have applied successfully for PhDs in Ireland or overseas. The Pauline Oliveros Sound Studio equips students with direct practical experience in a professional recording studio environment.

University College Cork

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Overview:

University College Cork (UCC) is a public research university located in Cork, Ireland. It is a constituent university of the National University of Ireland (NUI). UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

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Services Offered:

Student Support:

UCC provides a range of support services for students, including academic advising, career counseling, and mental health services.

Library:

The Boole Library offers extensive resources, including books, journals, and online databases.

Campus Life:

UCC offers a vibrant campus life with numerous student clubs, societies, and sports teams.

Accommodation:

UCC provides on-campus accommodation options for students.

International Office:

The International Office supports international students with visa applications, cultural adjustment, and other services.

Adult Continuing Education:

UCC offers a variety of programs for adult learners, including evening classes and online courses.

Continuing Professional Development:

UCC provides professional development opportunities for working professionals.

Micro-credentials:

UCC offers micro-credentials in various fields, allowing students to gain specific skills and knowledge.

Scholarships and Prizes:

UCC offers a range of scholarships and prizes to support students financially.

Transition-In Programme:

UCC provides a transition-in program for students who are new to higher education.

Graduate Attributes:

UCC focuses on developing graduate attributes such as critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCC offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a wide range of activities, including sports, clubs, societies, and events. The campus is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

World-class Education:

UCC is renowned for its high-quality education and research.

Strong Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines.

Vibrant Campus Life:

UCC provides a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to get involved.

Beautiful Location:

UCC is located in a beautiful setting, with easy access to the city of Cork.

International Reputation:

UCC is a globally recognized university with a strong international reputation.

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Academic Programs:

UCC offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

• Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Business and Law
• Engineering and Science
• Medicine and Health Sciences
• Education
• Music

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Other:

• UCC is committed to sustainability and has been recognized as the world's first green campus.
• UCC is a member of the National University of Ireland (NUI).
• UCC has a strong research focus and is home to a number of research centers and institutes.
• UCC is a popular choice for international students, with a large international student population.