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Tips for a successful Music course application

Posted: August 16 2022

Music is a subject which not many consider applying for compared to other subjects. However, it’s probably one of the most interesting courses offered by many universities in the UK. So, if you’re considering an application for a BA Music course, here are some useful tips:

Research what type of music you want to study:
There are different types of music courses offered by universities. For example, universities (including Brunel) offer BA Music and BA Music Production while others also offer BA Popular Music. Conservatoires offer courses in Music Performance (for orchestral performance) and Composition, amongst others. It’s important to research the types of music courses offered so that you’re applying for what you’re actually interested in.

Get straight to the point – don’t waffle:
Music is a broad subject and there’s a limit on how long a personal statement can be (UCAS limits personal statements to one side of A4 or 4,000 characters, including spaces). This means you’ve got to prioritise the most important information to put in your personal statement by getting straight to the point so that you won’t waste space.

Why this subject? As with all subjects, universities will want to know why you want to study this subject at a higher education level. Demonstrating a serious interest in furthering your knowledge and ability in music means universities are more likely to consider your application.

Show relevant experience in music: 
You can do this by giving examples of any experience you may have – such as being a member of a band or youth orchestra or working in a music venue. Showing your experience will show that you’re genuinely interested in the subject and that you’re not applying just for the sake of it.

Demonstrate any achievements in music, if applicable. This includes participating in a competition or winning an award related to music. Again, this will show that you’re passionate about music without having to say so explicitly

Identify specific career goals. Potential careers that music graduates go into include music therapist, music journalist, musicologist and music teacher. If you have a specific career path that you’d like to go down, stating that studying a music degree can help you to get there and explaining how it can do so will help to further your application.

Prepare for interviews and auditions. All applications to a music course at university require at least an interview. During the interview, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss the above points. You may have to demonstrate written work and perform a piece of music to demonstrate your ability on your instrument. However, some universities have both an interview and an audition. In this case, the performance aspect is separate to the interview and you’ll have to perform for a longer amount of time than you would during an interview.