Royal Academy of Music, University of London

What you'll study

The course curriculum centres on weekly intensive practical classes (typically totalling eight hours per week) that cover:

• Rehearsal techniques, repertoire, stylistic performance practice, technique and interpretation as the core practical content.
• Aural skills taught in a specialist weekly advanced class.
• Editing available for students wishing to develop scholarly editing skills.
• Vocal technique work with specialist voice teachers to develop the student’s own voice and knowledge useful for training choirs.
• Contextual studies including Gregorian chant, chorale and other liturgical forms through to contemporary practice to illuminate religious, cultural and compositional contexts of the repertoire.

Assessment in the final year includes a self‑organised concert outside the Academy and a rehearsal and performance with the Academy Chamber Choir.

Entry requirements

Applicants will normally hold a Bachelor of Music (BMus), a bachelor’s degree with music as a core component, or an international equivalent. The MA (Performance) route does not require an academic project proposal or written portfolio; selection emphasises musicality and practical performance. The selection procedure is a two‑round audition process: an initial video pre‑screening and a live practical assessment in London for successful candidates.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with practical skills aimed at leading and training choirs in churches, schools, community ensembles and professional groups worldwide. The course’s placement within London’s choral scene and its encouragement of external appointments prepares students for roles as conductors, choral trainers, and freelance choral directors who combine performing, teaching and self‑generated projects.

Scholarships & funding angle

The course page lists tuition fees per academic year (UK and international rates) and an application fee; further fees and funding information is available from the Academy. Applicants should review published tuition figures and explore Academy scholarships, external funding bodies and employer or ensemble support; early application and checking fee‑waiver guidance are recommended.