Office of Postgraduate Studies
Office of Postgraduate Studies

MMus In Performance Studies

Testimonial

I chose to pursue my master’s degree in the same university i.e. UCSI University due to its unique and flexible course structure. The MBA course here is... Read More

Daniel Yii Shiing Kai - MBA

In undertaking this programme, I hope to gain advanced skills in business scientific research methods and the critical thinking process, which is pertinent... Read More

IbeChidi Michael - DBA

I chose a different university (i.e. UCSI University) for my postgraduate studies because it provides a conducive learning and research environment and... Read More

Nathaniel Ninyio - MSc Biotechnology

Academic Guidelines

Approval Code R/212/7/0009; 08/2022
Accreditation Code MQA/FA1257
Classification MMus
Subject Area Performance Studies
Course Mode Full-time and part-time
Course Duration 16 months to 3 years
Course Location Kuala Lumpur
Intakes January and May


The Master of Music (Performance Studies) programme, with a classical music focus, is designed to cater to the changing needs of musicians today. It has a strong emphasis on performance and yet, allows students to acquire a secondary specialisation in areas of teaching, research, or community music. 

Candidates may be admitted into the music programs by meeting BOTH academic and music requirements below:

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must meet either of the following requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in related field with minimum CGPA 2.5

​OR

  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent not meeting CGPA 2.5, but with minimum 5 years working experience in the relevant field 

​OR

  • Other equivalent qualification recognised by the Malaysian government 

​AND

  • Passed the music audition/ interview

 

MUSIC AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
Performance Audition (Auditions are conducted at least 1 month before the start of the semester)
  • Duration: 20-25 minutes
  • Memorization is strongly encouraged for scholarship application
  • Submit a list of solo repertoires already studied and performed
  • 3 pieces of contrasting styles (e.g. Baroque, Classical, Romantic or Modern)
  • Only limited to classical instruments
  • Classical Voice: 3 pieces of contrasting styles in at least two different languages (e.g. German, Italian, French, English, Chinese)
Notes:
  • String/woodwind/voice majors are required to bring along their own piano accompanist or request for one from the Institute. In this case, a fee will be charged.
  • Composition majors are required to submit a portfolio of compositions and pass the audition on a major instrument
Aural Diagnostic Test
  • melodic dictation: the melody will include modulation
  • rhythmic dictation
  • SATB harmonic progression
Theory Diagnostic Test
  • Realization of figured bass in SATB setting and identification of non-chord tones
  • Roman-numeral analysis of a brief extract from tonal music
  • Form/Phrase Analysis
Music History Diagnostic Test
  • Multiple choice questions
  • Term definitions
  • Listening excerpts (identifying period, genre, musical characteristics of the excerpts)
  • Short essays

**Students who do not perform well in the placement exams may be required to take remedial courses in music history and/or theory. Credits earned in these remedial courses will not count towards graduation.

English Language Requirements

Candidates are required to have a minimum of one of the following if their first degree was not in English:

  • TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 42
  • IELTS: A minimum score of 5.0
  • MUET: A minimum score of Band 3
  • Pearson test of English: A minimum score of 47

If English is the medium of instruction from previous institution, supporting document is required.

The courses will open career opportunities for instrumental teaching and performance, and enhance musical skills, knowledge and understanding to a level appropriate for undergraduate music teaching at college and university.

Core Courses

  • Principal Study 1-4
  • Research Project
  • Music Research Methods
  • Performance Practice Seminar
  • Pedagogy Seminar

Elective Courses

Students are required to complete 9 credit hours from the selection
  • Repertoire Studies 1-3
  • Music and Law
  • Advanced Tonal Analysis
  • Orchestral Excerpts for Strings
  • Teaching Practicum
  • Community Music
  • Music in Southeast Asia
  • Seminar in Musicology 1-3
 
All information is correct at the time of upload and UCSI University reserves the right to make amendments without prior notice.