Performance: Typically Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals but all instrumentalists are considered
This is a practical performance-based course, in which you will demonstrate your critical awareness of current practice in your own specialist area through your playing or singing (usually guitar, bass, vocals, drums – but with the possibility of taking any other approved instrument: such as keyboard, saxophone, etc). This can only be done with a fluent level of technical and expressive skill.
Course Breakdown
Indicative Course Content
This course is modular and the three indicative taught modules are:
- Professional Masterclass (Double Module)
- Industry and Contextual Portfolio (Double Module)
- Commercial Performance (Double Module and dissertation equivalent)
View the Full Module Breakdown
Course Costs Include
Tuition Fees
The ACM Masters Degree programme is privately funded. See the Application Page for current course fees.
ACM Programme Portfolio
Written and designed by the world-class ACM team, this unique portfolio contains course notes, assessment details and reference material.
Also Included
In addition ACM students also benefit from free Rehearsal Space, 1-2-1 Tutorials on any discipline, access to Recording Studios, Masterclasses, Pro Workshops, Year Round Events, BDC Support, Industry Opportunities, Live Events, Equipment Bag and much more..
Financial Assistance
Accreditation
ACM Performance Masters Degree courses are run in association with our education partners at Chichester University.
Assessment
To gain a Postgraduate Certificate students need to complete and pass the Professional Masterclass OR Industry and Contextual Portfolio modules.
To gain a Postgraduate Diploma students must have completed and passed both the Professional Masterclass and Industry and Contextual Portfolio modules.
To gain an MA, students need to have successfully completed and passed all three double modules.
Course Requirements
Entry Requirements
Degree at 2:1 or above (preferably in music) and a professional portfolio.
Attendance
Full time (1 year)
“It’s my job to find new talent and ACM gives the music industry the opportunity to come across something really special at an early stage.”
Joe Etchells Universal Publishing
The range of support included for the development of performance skills is extensive, including individual tuition in your instrument or voice, group performance skills development, masterclass attendance at ACM Guildford (and occasionally at the University of Chichester), band and ensemble participation, and a consultation with an external specialist each semester. The process ensures that the regular support you receive from tutors, who are familiar to you, is complemented by invaluable exposure to other professional views and the experience of practicing contemporary musicians.
Students study the work of specialists in their own performance field, present a professional masterclass and research relevant areas of repertoire and technique practice. The dissertation takes the form of a ‘Commercial Performance’, presented as a professional gig organised by the candidate, and staged at the end of the academic year.
Most sessions are held at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford, with one module which may require occasional attendance at the University of Chichester. Modules are taught during weekdays, and students must be willing to travel to occasional external masterclass events in London and elsewhere.
All information is correct at the time of publication. ACM reserves the right to make changes or amendments without further notice.
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