Royal Academy of Music, University of London

What you'll study

Research projects are individually defined and typically combine analytical, historical and practice-based methods. A recent student’s project investigates performance practice of violin repertoire from the English Pastoral School (early– to mid-20th century), drawing on performance, archival sources and critical reflection. Supervision is provided by Academy staff with specialist expertise; the student cited is supervised by Jonathan Clinch and Rodney Friend.

Entry requirements

Specific entry criteria are not stated on this news item. The PhD is designed for applicants who already hold advanced performance or academic qualifications and who can propose an independent research project connected to musical performance or scholarship.

Career prospects

Graduates from practice-led music doctorates pursue a range of careers that combine performance, teaching and research. The Academy’s PhD students have gone on to secure professional orchestral posts (for example a PhD student appointed Section Player, Second Violin in the Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra), freelance work with major UK orchestras, recording projects that achieve specialist chart recognition, and teaching roles such as deputy lecturer for undergraduate elective modules. Other outcomes include festival direction and advocacy for repertoire.

Scholarships & funding angle

While this news item does not list funding details, prospective PhD applicants should explore Academy scholarships, research studentships, external funding bodies and performance-related grants, and consider how professional activities (freelance performance, recordings, teaching) can form part of a funding and career development strategy.