Music (2024)

Whether you have musical skill and ambition or just a sheer love of music, this subject allows you to sharpen your musical talent and appreciation with the guidance of our internationally acclaimed musicians and lecturers. By combining theory with practical tuition, you will learn different styles and techniques that build your skill-base in the areas of music and have countless opportunities for public performance and access to a world-class performing arts venue.

Music is available as a first major for the Bachelor of Arts (BA). Music may also be taken as a second major or minor in other undergraduate degrees, subject to approval of the Division in which the student is enrolled.

To complete Music as a single major for the BA, students must gain 135 points from papers listed for Music, including 105 points above 100 level, and 60 points above 200 level. Students must include MUSIC112, MUSIC213 and MUSIC314.

To complete Music as part of a double major for the BA or other undergraduate degree, students must gain 120 points from papers listed for Music, including 90 points above 100 level, and 45 points above 200 level. Students must include MUSIC112, MUSIC213 and MUSIC314.

To complete a minor in Music, students must complete 60 points from the papers listed for the Music major, including at least 30 points above 100 level.

Music is available in three different streams for the Bachelor of Music (BMus).

Candidates must complete the requirements of the specified programme in Music including MUSIC112, MUSIC115, MUSIC116, MUSIC213, and MUSIC314.

To complete a BMus (Academic), students must complete the required papers and a further 105 points from Music, and 135 points from elective papers.

To complete a BMus (Composition), students must complete MUSIC140 and a further 15 points at 100-level, MUSIC215, MUSIC219, MUSIC222, MUSIC240, MUSIC315, MUSIC323 and MUSIC340, and 105 points from elective papers.

To complete a BMus (Performance), students must complete MUSIC118, MUSIC120, MUSIC121 or MUSIC122, MUSIC218, MUSIC220, MUSIC221, MUSIC227, MUSIC318, MUSIC320, MUSIC321, MUSIC327 and 75 points from elective papers.

Note: All BMus students enrolled in first year Music papers should have skills in reading and writing music to Grade 3 level (NZMEB, AMEB) or Grade 5 (Royal Schools, Trinity College). Students wishing to enter the Performance stream at any level will be required to audition. Candidates must gain at least 60 points at 100 level in any subject(s) before enrolling in Music papers above 100 level, and at least 90 points at 100 and 200 level before enrolling in Music papers above 200 level.

Students are encouraged to contact the Division of Arts, Law, Psychology and Social Sciences for programme advice.

Note on Assessment: Failure to achieve a pass in any Performance, Performance Techniques or Chamber Music papers will result in the need to re-audition for entry to Performance or Chamber Music streams.


On this page


  • Prescriptions for the GradCert(Mus) and GradDip(Mus)

    A Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma are available to graduates who have not included Music at an advanced level in their first degree. Each programme of study in Music must include MUSIC112 or equivalent.

    For further details, contact the Division of Arts, Law, Psychology and Social Sciences Office.

  • Prescriptions for the PGCert(Mus), PGDip(Mus), BA(Hons), BMus(Hons), MA and MMus

    A Postgraduate Diploma in Music is available in either Composition or Performance. Students must complete either MUSIC504 or MUSIC505.

    To be eligible to be considered for enrolment in the BMus(Hons), a student should normally hold a BMus degree and have at least a B average in their 300 level Music papers in the area of intended graduate specialisation or all their undergraduate Music papers.

    To complete a BA(Hons) or BMus(Hons) in Music, students must gain 120 points at 500 level, including at least 30 points in research (normally MUSIC591) and at least 30 points from papers listed for Music.

    Candidates for the MMus must have at least second class honours (second division) in their BMus(Hons) degrees. The MMus is taken in Composition, Opera or Performance. Students are required to take MUSIC514 or MUSIC524 or MUSIC525.

    Candidates for the MA in Music must have completed either:

    a) a BA with a major in Music (or equivalent) and have gained at least a B grade average across the 300 level papers, or for a qualification considered by the Academic Board to be equivalent, or

    b) a BA(Hons) in Music (or equivalent) with at least second class honours (second division), or a PGDip in Music (or equivalent) with at least a B average, and

    c) have satisfied the prerequisites for graduate study in the subject(s) being presented for the Degree, at levels considered appropriate by the Academic Board.

    Acceptance into the MA is subject to the availability of a suitable supervisor and overall approval from the Programme Convenor.

    Completion requirements for the MA in Music vary according to admission criteria:

    Students admitted under a) above must complete 180 points from approved 500 level papers, including ALPSS500 and at least 45 points from the papers listed for the subject in List A: Advanced Study of the regulations for the MA.

    Students admitted under b) above must complete 120 points from approved 500-level papers, including at least 45 points from the papers listed for the subject in List A: Advanced Study of the regulations for the MA.

  • Prescriptions for the MPhil

    The Master of Philosophy is a one year research-based degree in which students undertake a programme of approved and supervised research that leads to a thesis which critically investigates an approved topic of substance and significance, demonstrates expertise in the methods of research and scholarship, displays intellectual independence and makes a substantial original contribution to the subject area concerned, and is of publishable quality.

  • Prescriptions for the PhD and DMA

    The Doctor of Philosophy is a three year research-based degree in which students undertake a programme of approved and supervised research that leads to a thesis which critically investigates an approved topic of substance and significance, demonstrates expertise in the methods of research and scholarship, displays intellectual independence and makes a substantial original contribution to the subject area concerned, and is of publishable quality.

    The Doctor of Musical Arts is a research degree in which the research component is divided equally between research-based performance and a supporting thesis. The thesis will be conceptually related to the student's performance.

  • 100 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    ARTSC112Music, Sound and Human Communication15.024B (Online)
    Every day we communicate using complex linguistic and musical systems. This paper will explore the role of sound and music in human communication and the cognitive, social, and cultural processes, which underlie such communication. The paper takes a broad, interdisciplinary look at all aspects of sound and musical communication, fr...
    MAORI102He Hīnatore ki te Ao Māori: Introducing the Māori World15.024A (Hamilton), 24B (Hamilton) & 24G (Online)
    An introduction to the Maori world view, social organisation, cultural concepts, including Maori astronomy, and their relevance in a contemporary society.
    MAORI157Ngā Mahi a Rehia: An Introduction to Kapa Haka15.024B (Hamilton)
    An introduction to the theoretical and practical components of kapa haka as a means of communication and cultural expression in the Maori world.
    MUSIC101Secondary Performance Studies 115.024B (Hamilton) & 24D (Hamilton)
    Students develop musical interpretation and technical skills in their chosen instrument/voice and broaden their repertoire knowledge and performance opportunities at Friday performance hour sessions.
    MUSIC102Jazz Improvisation Combo 115.024D (Hamilton)
    This performance-based course will focus on the development of instrumental technique and Jazz improvisation skills through the in-depth study of harmony, associated scales, rhythm, melodic devices and the analysis of transcribed solos on a set repertoire of tunes. This course includes group-based improvisation ensemble classes and...
    MUSIC1121000 years of Music15.024A (Hamilton)
    An introduction to music, its history, ideas and techniques.
    MUSIC115Composition 115.024B (Hamilton)
    The development of creative musical skills and techniques based on classical and popular idioms; song writing; melody writing; thematic development; harmonic understanding; two-part counterpoint. Computer technology will be used as a composition and publishing tool.
    MUSIC116Harmony and Counterpoint and Musicianship15.024D (Hamilton)
    A study of harmony and counterpoint in the Western tradition using historical and contemporary models, with practical application through sightsinging, dictation and keyboard skills.
    MUSIC118Performance Techniques 115.024A (Hamilton)
    This paper introduces the fundamental techniques that enable you to perform professionally in a public arena on your chosen instrument - piano, organ, harpsichord, violin, viola, cello, double bass, classical guitar or voice, orchestral winds and brass.
    MUSIC120Performance 115.024A (Hamilton) & 24B (Hamilton)
    This paper continues to develop the fundamental techniques which enable you to perform proficiently in a public arena on your chosen instrument.
    MUSIC121Classical Collaborations15.024D (Hamilton)
    This paper provides practical experience and development in a variety of chamber music formations, sonata duo, piano duet, piano trio, string quartet, vocal ensemble, as well as orchestral and choral practice, and, for keyboard players, continuo and accompanying skills.
    MUSIC122Musical Collaborations15.024D (Hamilton)
    This course comprises three streams: University Chamber Orchestra, University Chamber Choir, and University Big Band. The course will cover discipline-specific ensemble skills, vocal/orchestral techniques and discipline, and relevant vocal and orchestral repertoire.
    MUSIC140Audio Tech: Communication and Creativity15.024A (Online)
    This paper is an introduction to DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations); the creation of original musical works based on computer technology; basic recording and editing techniques; fundamental music studio knowledge; historical, aesthetic and theoretical elements.
  • 200 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    MUSIC201Secondary Performance Studies 215.024D (Hamilton)
    This course teaches fundamental technical and musical training to facilitate greater proficiency and understanding of your chosen musical instrument.
    MUSIC202Jazz Improvisation Combo 215.024D (Hamilton)
    This performance-based course will focus on the development of instrumental technique and Jazz improvisation skills through the in-depth study of harmony, associated scales, rhythm, melodic devices and the analysis of transcribed solos on a set repertoire of tunes.
    MUSIC215Composition 215.024A (Hamilton)
    The development of individual creative musical skills based on studies of historical and contemporary techniques in Western classical music.
    MUSIC218Performance Techniques 215.024A (Hamilton)
    This paper introduces advanced performance techniques that enable you to perform professionally in a public arena on your chosen instrument.
    MUSIC219Materials of Music 215.024A (Hamilton)
    Building on MUSIC119, students develop a deepened critical awareness of the structures of western classical music through the examination of a range of musical styles. These studies are complemented by practical exercises in advanced harmonic and contrapuntal practice, including chromatic harmony and fugue. Major theories of musi...
    MUSIC220Performance 215.024B (Hamilton)
    This paper develops the fundamental techniques which enable you to perform professionally in a public arena on your chosen instrument.
    MUSIC221Classical Collaborations 215.024D (Hamilton)
    Development of chamber music skills that were introduced in MUSIC121.
    MUSIC226Musical Theatre15.024G (Hamilton)
    This course provides a historical overview of British and American musical theatre and an introduction to the production processes and stagecraft associated with musicals, combined with practical exploration of a variety of singing, acting and dancing styles.
    MUSIC227Performance Ensemble: Choir/Orchestra/Jazz Big Band Ensemble15.024D (Hamilton)
    This course comprises three streams: University Chamber Orchestra, University Chamber Choir, and University Big Band. The course will cover discipline-specific ensemble skills, vocal/orchestral techniques and discipline, and relevant vocal and orchestral repertoire.
    MUSIC240Creative Music Technology 2: Music and Visuals15.024B (Online)
    An introduction to music for screen idioms and its compositions through digital sound generation.
    MUSIC250Language for Singers15.024D (Hamilton)
    Exploring the study of diction and language for singers, including IPA, English diction, Italian, French, and German.
    THSTS212Developing Text and Action15.024B (Hamilton)
    This paper develops performance and writing for performance skills. Using techniques based on contemporary/postdramatic methods in theatre and performance, students will engage with the creation and performance of new theatrical work, leading to performance assessment.
  • 300 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    ALPSS390Directed Study15.024X (Hamilton)
    This paper allows students from the Division of Arts, Law, Psychology, and Social Sciences to undertake research on a specific topic related to their major or minor under the guidance of academic staff.
    MUSIC301Secondary Performance Studies Class15.024D (Hamilton)
    This paper further develops musical interpretation and technical skills with the chosen instrument through weekly classes, and broadens repertoire, knowledge and performance ability through Friday Performance Hour sessions.
    MUSIC314History and Analysis of Music: 1800 to the Present15.024B (Hamilton)
    A critical and analytical survey of Western Music from the Romantic period to the present day, taught through a context-based survey course. Topics include: Literary musicians; The national and the exotic; Virtuosi; Women in 19th century opera.
    MUSIC315Composition 315.024B (Hamilton)
    This paper aims to expand the creative musical skills, technical expertise and artistic outlook of students based on the exploration of a variety of twentieth century and twenty first century compositional ideas, techniques and technologies.
    MUSIC318Performance Techniques 315.024A (Hamilton)
    The development of advanced performance techniques.
    MUSIC320Performance 315.024B (Hamilton)
    This paper teaches more advanced techniques which enable students to perform more proficiently in a public arena on the chosen instrument.
    MUSIC321Classical Collaborations 315.024D (Hamilton)
    This paper provides advanced practical experience and development in a variety of chamber music formations and may also include orchestral and choral practice, and, for keyboard players, continuo and accompanying skills.
    MUSIC323Performance, Creative or Research Project15.024B (Hamilton)
    The supervised development of individual creative, performance or research project.
    MUSIC327Performance Ensemble 215.024D (Hamilton)
    This course comprises three streams: University Chamber Orchestra, University Chamber Choir, and University Big Band. The course will cover discipline-specific ensemble skills, vocal/orchestral techniques and discipline, and relevant vocal and orchestral repertoire.
    MUSIC340Music Technology 3: Creative Project15.024A (Online)
    This paper includes a critical study of music and technology, and the development of students' production and composition techniques. The aim is to extend creative musical skills, technical expertise, and artistic understanding.
  • 500 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    ALPSS500Academic & Professional Research & Writing30.024A (Online), 24B (Online) & 24C (Online)
    In this course, students will gain the skills and confidence to seamlessly transition from study to work. This course works to enhance the 'skills for the future' identified by the World Economic Forum (2020), in order to produce resilient, creative students with strong analytic and critical thinking skills.
    ALPSS590Directed Study30.024X (Hamilton)
    This paper allows students from the Division of Arts, Law, Psychology and Social Sciences to undertake research on a specific topic related to their major under the guidance of academic staff.
    MUSIC501The Aesthetics of Music30.024D (Hamilton)
    No description available.
    MUSIC504Professional Performance Practice120.024X (Hamilton)
    No description available.
    MUSIC514Composition Portfolio120.024X (Hamilton)
    No description available.
    MUSIC521Advanced Classical Collaborations30.024D (Hamilton)
    This advanced paper focuses on the development of comprehensive chamber music and ensemble skills, and the improvement of musicianship in relation to this. Students will deepen their knowledge of repertoire, roles, approproate stylistic performance practcies and collaborative creative practice.
    MUSIC522Composition Studies90.024D (Hamilton)
    No description available.
    MUSIC523Advanced Performance, Creative or Research Project30.024B (Hamilton)
    This advanced paper aims to develop and refine the individual compositional, performance and research skills students have developed in studies at Undergraduate level, and to assist in the emergence of the student's individual creative voice through supervised composition, performance or written projects. The practice-­based struc...
    MUSIC524Advanced Performance120.024X (Hamilton)
    No description available.
    MUSIC525Advanced Opera Studies120.024X (Hamilton)
    Advanced Opera Studies is an extensive and unique vocational training programme for exceptional singers who have shown promise and dedication to a career in opera, providing immersive, holistic training, audition and performance opportunities and access to international tutors.
    MUSIC528Performance Studies90.024X (Hamilton)
    No description available.
    MUSIC540Advanced Music Technology30.024A (Online)
    This advanced paper includes a critical study of music and technology, and the development of students' production and composition techniques, with a focus on simulating the real life experience of being a professional composer. The aim is to further extend creative musical skills, technical expertise, and artistic understanding to...
    MUSIC592Dissertation60.024X (Hamilton)
    A report on the findings of a theoretical or empirical investigation.
    MUSIC593Performance Composition Portfolio90.024X (Hamilton)
    An externally examined piece of written work that reports on the findings of supervised research, or original composition or a recital.
    MUSIC594Music Thesis120.024X (Hamilton)
    An externally examined piece of written work that reports on the findings of supervised research.
  • 800 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    MUSIC800Music MPhil Thesis120.024X (Hamilton)
    No description available.
  • 900 Level

    Code Paper Title Points Occurrence / Location
    MUSIC900Music PhD Thesis120.024I (Hamilton), 24J (Hamilton), 24K (Hamilton) & 24X (Hamilton)
    No description available.
    MUSIC901Music Creative Practice PhD Thesis120.024I (Hamilton), 24J (Hamilton), 24K (Hamilton) & 24X (Hamilton)
    No description available.
    MUSIC994DMA Thesis and Performance120.024I (Hamilton), 24J (Hamilton), 24K (Hamilton) & 24X (Hamilton)
    No description available.

2024 Catalogue of Papers information current as of : 12 March 2024 7:59pm

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