Course summary
The one or two-year Guildhall Artist Masters programme in Composition is offered in two parts: Part One (MMus) is available in full-time (one year) or part-time (two years) modes. Part Two (MComp) One year full-time Progression to Part Two is conditional on results from Part One. (Part Two (MPerf) is available in one full-time year only. Students who are enrolled on the Extended Guildhall Artist programme will need to pass an introductory year before progressing to Part One)). Guildhall School offers some of the most stimulating and creative training for composers in the UK. Studying composition at Guildhall Artist Masters level prepares you for professional life as a composer. It allows you to explore and refine your individual artistic voice within the atmosphere of a busy, modern conservatoire, while also giving you space for self-reflection. The programme is primarily practical and project-based, but you will also be supported by weekly analytical and theoretical seminars. All students are expected to meet a series of deadlines as the year progresses – essential preparation for a professional career. During Part 1 (MMus), students produce a portfolio of compositions supported by a written commentary on the year’s work. These core projects include extensive workshopping opportunities and performances. While compositional activity will take up most of your study time, you can also take classes in electronic music and writing for film and television which can be further pursued via the diverse range of elective modules available. Exceptional students on Part One will be given the opportunity to continue their studies into Part Two. During the year, you will independently undertake a portfolio of three substantial compositional projects alongside your one-to-one tuition, strengthening your artistic and professional development.
Modules
Core modules to include: Induction to the Guildhall Artist Programme; Integration & Professional Development; Critique of personal development; Professional Practice I & II (Leadership Specialism only); Performance Practice I & II (Opera specialism only); Written English (no credit weighting).
Assessment method
Assessment is mostly based on evaluation of product (e.g. a composition) but learning processes are assessed too; feedback is a key feature across all methods and modules. The main focus of assessment is formative throughout with the number of summative assessments is kept each year to the minimum necessary. The main types of assessment are: composition portfolio, written assignments, individual presentations and progress reports
Entry requirements
Selection to the programme is based on evaluation of compositions and colloquium. Candidates are assessed on their potential to achieve the minimum standard of Master’s level in PS. The minimum academic qualification for entry is an Undergraduate degree with Honours in Music, or an international equivalent. Undergraduate degrees with Honours in any other subjects can be considered if accompanied by evidence of significant musical activities and achievements.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Additional fee information
Fees are variable depending on the mode of study. Please consult the School website for more information: https://www.gsmd.ac.uk/study-with-guildhall/fees-and-funding
Sponsorship information
The School does its best to ensure that no student who is offered a place on merit is prevented from taking up that place on grounds of financial hardship and so a range of financial support is offered. The School offers a wide range of scholarships to students regardless of domicile. A scholarship award may be made to cover either the full cost of tuition fees or a fraction of them, and may include an element for maintenance. Awards are made by academic staff to individuals on the basis of their talent, their potential and their personal financial need. Applicants may be considered for a scholarship at audition and a scholarship may be given along with an offer of a place at the School. All students who accept a place at the School can also apply for scholarship support.
Provider information
Guildhall School of Music & Drama
Silk Street
City of London
EC2Y 8DT