BA (Hons) in Music Education

Music EducationCourse ModulesWhat our Graduates doEntry Requirements
This course is for students looking to develop a musical career with a clear focus on teaching. The programme has a unique design that examines education in both the private and public sectors. Modules in 1-1 teaching, workshop skills and leadership are delivered alongside modules in classroom teaching, educational theory and practice. A foundation of core musical and creative skills is developed in the first two years of study, whilst in the third year of the programme students have the opportunity to follow their own musical or educational interests by realising a substantial project.

1-1 lessons instrumental/vocal lessons allow students to develop their performance skills whilst the experience gained through self-study of an unfamiliar instrument encourages a greater awareness of the needs of those new to musical study. Students participate in ensembles by playing, writing and conducting.

A range of musical styles are examined from the classical, world, jazz and pop traditions; this develops deeper analytical skills along with a broad musical outlook. Musical techniques are then applied creatively in composition and arranging. As students progress through the course they are required to observe and reflect on different approaches to music teaching. This prepares the ground for experience gained in a school placement and in the delivery of 1-1 lessons and a workshop.

A substantial negotiated project in year 3 allows students to pursue their own particular interests by undertaking an in-depth and detailed study.

Innovative programme design resulting from a well-executed and clearly articulated market research and consultation process – University of Essex


BA (Hons) in Music Education Modules offered:

Year 1 ( 1 & 2 Part-time)

PERFORMANCE STUDIES 1 (30 CREDITS)

This module will enable students to develop a range of performance related skills, building on the experience gained prior to entry. The main focus is solo performance, delivered through a combination of individual lessons, ensemble coaching and workshops, and culminating in an assessed recital. Students also undertake a self-directed course in a second study instrument or voice. This requires a self-disciplined and evaluative approach, one that heightens awareness of the learning process in practical studies. Learning is assessed through a presentation with practical demonstration. Improvisation skills are developed through a study of relevant techniques, music theory and ear training, thereby strengthening the connections between musical understanding, imagination and the instrument. Students will also develop a secure foundation of basic accompanying skills. Improvisation and accompanying are both assessed in a combined practical examination.

ARRANGING AND CONDUCTING (15 CREDITS)

This module will enable students to acquire the skills to arrange, conduct and rehearse music for small ensembles. By working closely with designated groups, students will gain the technical understanding needed to write effectively for a variety of instruments and voices. Students will also develop a secure base of conducting and rehearsal techniques. The module emphasises the importance of clear musical communication both in the arrangements and in rehearsal.

STYLE, ANALYSIS AND COMPOSITION (30 CREDITS)

This module is designed to address a range of musical styles, initially by investigating historical contexts. Students will also develop and apply analytical techniques, leading to the creation of compositional models. These models then form the basis of their own compositions whilst an on-going process of self-evaluation will allow students to develop a deeper understanding of their own musical development.

PRINCIPLES OF LEARNING AND TEACHING (30 CREDITS)

In this module an overview of the history of music education provides a context for an introduction to educational theory. Students will consider its application in instrumental/vocal teaching and in the classroom, taking into account a range of approaches to teaching and learning. This will include an evaluation of supporting materials for music education. Students will additionally reflect on their own learning experiences as musicians and potential educators.

RHYTHM WORKSHOP (15 CREDITS)

This module primarily ensures the development of rhythmic language and vocabulary through the study of the rhythmic traditions of West Africa and Latin America. By completing the module students will be equipped to play a range of musical styles relevant to both the creative musician and potential educator. This will be achieved through the learning and development of percussion technique and artistry, along with understanding of the role that different instruments in the context of ensemble performance.

Year 2 ( 3 & 4 Part-time)

PERFORMANCE STUDIES 2 (30 CREDITS)

This module builds on the skills covered in Performance Studies 1. Students further develop their instrumental/vocal skills through an enhanced musicianship and technical ability. Additional practical experience gained in workshop activities facilitates a greater personal confidence and deeper sense of professionalism in performance. Students continue their musical development in a second study instrument or voice, reflecting on the learning process in a course of self-directed study. Improvisation and accompanying skills are also developed to a more sophisticated level to ensure greater musical flexibility and creativity, along with consistency of application in a wider range of contexts.

CREATIVE MUSIC TECHNIQUES (30 CREDITS)

This module builds on two from Level 4: Arranging and Conducting and Style, Analysis and Composition. Students will further develop their compositional technique through a process of research, analysis and application. As well as completing exercises in composition and arranging, students will create small scale works for ensembles and for solo performance. Whilst broadening technical skills, the module additionally places a greater emphasis on creativity, and on confidence in the clear communication of musical ideas.

TECHNOLOGY ENHANCED LEARNING FOR MUSIC EDUCATION (30 CREDITS)

This module will address the impact of technology on music education through an examination of current practices in live sound, recording (pre and post production) and online technologies for recorded music. The module will explore the use of online platforms to support music education along with some of the technical and ethical issues relating to music and the internet. In addition, the principles of analogue and digital audio, sample manipulation and sequencing will be introduced. The primary aim is to establish a secure understanding of the principles and application of the recording process through a combination of musical and technical expertise and an appreciation of the creative possibilities of current technology.

MUSIC TEACHING IN PRACTICE (30 CREDITS)

This module builds on The Principles of Learning and Teaching (Level 4) by taking a more detailed study of educational theory, planning and practice. Students will contextualise their understanding by observing music education in action in contrasting educational contexts and evaluating the way in which practical musical activities are integrated into a broader based curriculum. They will also reflect on their current musical and educational abilities in order to plan for their subsequent development in Level 6 of the programme.

Year 3 ( 5 & 6 Part-time)

MUSIC LEADERSHIP (30 CREDITS)

This module provides a detailed study of 1-1 and small group instrumental/vocal teaching, and develops the skills needed to deliver practical music workshops to larger groups. An enhanced understanding of the interrelationships of teaching methodologies and learning styles allows students to design effective lessons and supporting teaching materials. Students apply their understanding through the delivery of 1-1 lessons and by leading a music workshop. They will need to evidence the learning that has taken place in both contexts and critically evaluate the educational value of practical music teaching

MUSIC EDUCATION PLACEMENT (30 CREDITS)

This module is designed to provide an in depth review of approaches to teaching music in either primary, secondary or further education contexts. It explores ways in which to create a scheme of work for a whole year and how that scheme relates to current national policy. During semester 1 students will negotiate a placement with a school or college and then spend up to 24 hours in semester 2 in a classroom working as an assistant to the teacher. Students may choose the educational level for the placement according to their interests and professional intentions. Observation and practical experience inform critical reflection and evaluation in relation to: the application of educational theory; and the role that music education plays within the wider educational and political context. Confident and proficient interaction with providers and professionals underpins the success of the module.

PROJECT REALISATION (30 CREDITS)

The module supports the realisation of a self-directed music or music education related project, demonstrating independent study and research appropriate to Level 6. Students will initiate their projects by submitting a proposal that is time-related and realistic, and sets out achievable outcomes that form the basis for subsequent evaluation. They will need to demonstrate an advanced understanding of their chosen area of study and later reflect on the process as a whole. Students may choose to present their reports in written, electronic or audio/visual formats, or in a presentation; high standards of communication and academic practice are expected.

CAREERS IN MUSIC (15 CREDITS)

In this module students research a chosen area of potential employment within music education or the music industry as a whole, depending on their career aspirations. By analysing the skills needed for employment and/or self-employment, they develop a frame of reference for critical self-evaluation. This comprehensive process of reflection leads to an action plan for career development that takes account of musical, educational and transferable skills.

MUSIC AND ASSESSMENT (15 CREDITS)

In this module students examine the role that assessment plays in music education. A critical review of assessment theory and principles lays the foundation for an investigation into the way in which summative assessment is implemented in a chosen context. The module is relevant to both classroom and to 1-1 instrumental/vocal teaching and students may choose to focus on either. Students then go on to apply their learning by designing, conducting and critically evaluating formative assessments of their own.

Graduates can develop self-employment opportunities in music education that include 1-1 instrumental/vocal tuition, workshop delivery and leadership. Graduates may also progress to postgraduate study at MA level and higher, or to a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) for those wishing to pursue a career in classroom teaching.

240 UCAS points (normally 2 or more A Levels including Music or Music Technology, or BTEC Extended Diploma in Music). An appropriate level of practical instrumental or vocal performance skill. (It is not a prerequisite for entry to have passed a graded examination in instrumental or vocal performance but a standard equivalent to grade seven will be expected).

A satisfactory enhanced DBS check will be required for the second year of the course.

How To Apply

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