MUSI43930: Special Topic in Music Performance

• We require evidence of standard at least equivalent to a strong 2:1 degree final year performance recital. A video recording of no less than 10 minutes must be submitted to prove that the applicant is of the required level.

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• To provide students with an opportunity to undertake in-depth research into a topic not otherwise available in another Performance module. Special Topics should reflect the research areas of the academic performance staff in the department, especially performance practice in Early music or Contemporary music.
• To provide students with advanced, in-depth knowledge of the key literature, theories, concepts, arguments and debates that comprise the relevant topic.
• To provide students with the knowledge and skills required to pursue self-directed research on a specific topic, under the direction of a member of staff with the relevant expertise.
• To equip students with extended research training in the form of one-to-one supervisions suitable to enhance their research preparation for PhD study.

• Content of the "Special Topic in Music Performance" will reflect the teaching and research expertise of members of staff as demonstrated in our current module provision and Departmental research activities. An appropriate topic will be agreed upon between the student and supervisor. Tutorials will lead to a twenty-minute lecture-recital on the chosen topic.

Subject-specific Knowledge:

• Acquire an advanced, in-depth knowledge of recent research in a relevant topic relating to Performance practice in either Early music or Contemporary music.
• Prepare and develop a detailed research plan on a specialized area and refine their research in light of guidance from an expert supervisor.
• Present rigorous academic work reflecting advanced knowledge supported by tailored research-led teaching on a specific topic.

Subject-specific Skills:

• An advanced ability to engage critically with theories and methodologies pertinent to the academic study of music performance practice.
• Advanced critical skills in the close reading and analysis of musical texts.
• Identify key issues, questions and debates concerning a specific topic in either Early or Contemporary music performance practice.
• Identify and make use of relevant literature.

Key Skills:

• Use their own initiative to choose a research topic.
• Manage their time effectively in the context of supervised research.
• Exercise self-discipline, responsibility and autonomy in pursuing a research project.
• Communicate complex ideas effectively both aurally and in writing, and in conversation with an expert.

• Students choice of topics will be subject to the approval of the supervisory team, and the availability of appropriate supervision in the area of specialism.
• Supervisions will provide students with guidance on all aspects of the project and feedback on work-in-progress, but without jeopardising the independence of their research.
• The assessment in the form of a lecture-recital will combine both the academic research undertaken and the practical employment of said research in the students performance practice.

8-minute audio-visual presentation; draft version of the lecture/recital to be submitted during term 2 by arrangement with the supervisor.

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